Introduction
Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is the main international airport serving Guyana, located in Timehri, East Bank Demerara. It is named after the former President of Guyana, Cheddi Jagan, who was a prominent figure in the country’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
History of Airports in Guyana
Guyana’s first airport was the Atkinson Field Air Base, which was built by the United States military during World War II. After the war, the airport was handed over to the Guyanese government and renamed the Timehri International Airport. Over the years, however, the airport’s facilities became outdated and unable to handle the increasing passenger traffic.
The Need for a New International Airport
In the 1990s, Guyana’s government recognized the need for a new international airport that could accommodate larger aircraft and more passengers. The old Timehri International Airport was limited in its capacity and technical capabilities, which hindered the growth of Guyana’s tourism industry and the country’s overall economic development.
Planning and Construction of CJIA
The planning and construction of Cheddi Jagan International Airport began in 1994, with funding from the Inter-American Development Bank and the Guyanese government. The project was overseen by the Chinese engineering and construction company, China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd.
Opening Ceremony of Cheddi Jagan International Airport
Cheddi Jagan International Airport was officially opened on March 6, 1999, with a grand ceremony attended by several international dignitaries, including the then Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Basdeo Panday, and the former President of the Republic of Cuba, Fidel Castro.
Expansion and Upgrades of CJIA
In recent years, Cheddi Jagan International Airport has undergone significant upgrades and expansion works, including the extension of its runway, the construction of a new terminal building, and the installation of new security and baggage screening systems.
CJIA’s Role in Guyana’s Economic Development
Cheddi Jagan International Airport plays a critical role in the economic development of Guyana, as it is the main gateway for international tourists and businesses to the country. The airport has also facilitated the growth of the country’s agricultural and mining sectors, as it provides a vital transport link for exports.
CJIA’s Current Status
Today, Cheddi Jagan International Airport is one of the most modern and well-equipped airports in the Caribbean, with state-of-the-art facilities and a high level of service. The airport handles over 600,000 passengers annually, with flights to and from destinations across North and South America, Europe, and the Caribbean.
The Controversy Surrounding CJIA’s Expansion
Despite its many successes, Cheddi Jagan International Airport has faced some controversy in recent years over its expansion plans. Some local residents have raised concerns about the impact of the airport’s expansion on nearby communities, while others have criticized the government’s handling of the project’s finances.
Conclusion: The Importance of CJIA
Cheddi Jagan International Airport is an essential asset for Guyana, contributing significantly to the country’s economic development and international profile. As the country continues to grow and expand, CJIA will undoubtedly play an even more critical role in facilitating trade, tourism, and other economic activities in the future.
References
- "Cheddi Jagan International Airport." Guyana Tourism Authority. Accessed October 23, 2021. .
- "Cheddi Jagan International Airport." Airports Council International. Accessed October 23, 2021. .
- "Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion Project." Ministry of Public Works, Guyana. Accessed October 23, 2021. .
Further Reading
- "Travel and Tourism in Guyana." Euromonitor International. Accessed October 23, 2021. .
- "Guyana’s Economic Recovery and Growth." International Monetary Fund. Accessed October 23, 2021. https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/GUY.
