News

THE JAMAICA Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) has been given millions in funding to construct state-of-the-art towers to support an anticipated increase in traffic at both the Norman Manley and Sangster international airports.

The Canadian government, through the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC), on Thursday signed a contract of J$19 million for the construction of the towers. Intelcan, a global leader in the provision of air traffic-management systems for civilian and military applications, is the contractor assigned to undertake the project.

Director general of the JCAA, Oscar Derby, said he was pleased with the accord, as both the Jamaican and Canadian governments work towards improving aviation standards here.

"This partnership represents two good years to construct new towers at both local airports, and we are extremely grateful for the offer being provided," Derby said.

High commissioner to Canada, Stephen Hallihan, disclosed that the building of the towers was timely.

"The civil aviation industry is a key sector in modern societies which is highly dependent on modern facilities and infrastructure. It is crucial that we upgrade the sector to meet these present demands," Hallihan said.

The project is also expected to provide an opportunity for modernising staff amenities.

Meanwhile, Transport and Works Minister Mike Henry said he hoped the project would be completed in the shortest possible time.

"Many countries are implementing these programmes and I am happy to know that Jamaica is mirroring this kind of initiative," Henry said.

- Philando Neil