Sangster to get $3-billion immigration hall
Published:Saturday | December 16, 2023 | 12:09 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Ground has officially been broken for the expansion of a new immigration hall at Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, St James, valued at US$18 million (J$2.88 billion).
The project is part of the final phase of the overall US$300 million expansion efforts undertaken this year. The previous stages involved lengthening the runway, realigning the entrance and exit for departing and arriving passengers, and the creation of a new shopping concourse.
National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang underscored the urgency of this expansion during the 20th anniversary celebration of MBJ in Montego Bay.
The existing facilities face challenges coping with the influx of visitors and workers, particularly during peak periods. With some 30 flights arriving daily between noon and 3 p.m., the immigration hall’s capacity is stretched, processing 5,000 to 6,000 people within a limited space.
Chang emphasised the imperative of ensuring a seamless experience for visitors to Jamaica, urging contractors to prioritise efficiency.
Acknowledging travellers’ frustrations during peak hours, he explained the cyclic nature of tourism, where numerous flights converge during specific time frames.
The expansion aims not only to alleviate congestion, but also to enhance processing speed with the installation of six-seater gates and electronic gates.
Chang stressed that creating a more spacious arrival area is crucial for efficient crowd management.
Since MBJ assumed management of Sangster, the Government has invested $500 million to bring the airport up to international standards. The immigration and outgoing security expansion represent the concluding phase, with Chang expressing gratitude to immigration and customs officers and the MBJ team. He affirmed the commitment to creating a better working environment for them.
New master plan
Looking ahead, plans include increasing the number of desks, seater gates, and eGates for Jamaican nationals returning home. Anticipating the growth in tourism and airport traffic, a new master plan is in development, extending Sangster’s capabilities beyond 2033, as shared by Audley Deidrick, CEO and president of the Airports Authority of Jamaica.
Deidrick emphasised the successful partnership between MBJ and the Government, noting improvements in service levels and operational efficiencies recognised by the Airports Council International. Sangster International Airport currently serves more than 45 direct destinations globally, playing a pivotal role as a tourism hub.
Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited, reflected on the airport’s history, citing milestones such as the installation of boarding bridges, expansion of the terminal, and ongoing construction of retail areas. The retail programme, comprising food and beverage locations and duty-free shops, continues to evolve, enhancing the overall passenger experience at SIA.