GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – President Irfaan Ali says his government is exploring the possibility of a new international airport in the country’s southwest. At the same time, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is set to get a second terminal to accommodate a massive surge in the number of visitors to the country.
He told a special sitting of the National Assembly that consideration is being given to having a second international airport in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
Ali said these measures would enhance the country’s tourism profile, attracting more interest and investment.
“Our government has embarked on building a visionary economy where the pillars of eco-tourism, sports and entertainment tourism, health tourism, and business tourism can foster a dynamic ecosystem that promotes environmental stewardship, cultural enrichment, and economic inclusivity,” he said.
The government has aggressively pursued initiatives to position Lethem as a significant commercial hub. New hotels are already under construction, and the government plans to develop a food processing facility in the township to serve the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The CJIA has been expanded and upgraded over time, with the addition of an extended boarding corridor, two additional boarding bridges, and an extended runway to accommodate larger aircraft such as the Boeing 777.
The government is also working to digitise the entire customs and immigration system by introducing biometric kiosks and electronic gates.
According to President Ali, these measures reflect the massive growth of the tourism industry. Guyana had 801,000 visitors in the first nine months of 2024, and the country is on track to surpass one million passengers by November. It has also welcomed six new airlines, including British Airways and United Airways, to its aviation sector. Avianca recently announced direct flights between Georgetown and Bogota, Colombia, twice a week.
To further boost the sector, President Ali noted that discussions are ongoing with Abercrombie and Kent, a renowned luxury travel company, to enter Guyana’s market.
Guyana has received several regional and international awards this year alone, including the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) for Destination of the Year in the Ecological Tourism category. Ali said these accolades consolidate the country’s position as a key player in the global tourism industry.
“These major accomplishments emphasize our need for more infrastructure and human capacity building. We are bolstering capacity building with training, investment, mentoring, standardization, and regulations,” he underscored.
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