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TCI: Minister Musgrove Promises Changes To Domestic Air Travel and Upgrade Of Airport Infrastructure
#TurksandCaicos, May 24, 2021 – TCI Minister for Immigration and Border Services, Arlington Musgrove has revealed a series of changes and upgrades work in progress under the TCI Airport Authority.
Speaking during a press conference on 17th May 2021, the minister assured that tangible work was ongoing and more advancements are underway. But, he expressed his displeasure at the clumsy upgrade progress in a South Caicos Airport.
“A visit was made to Airport in South Caicos to assess the progress of the terminal. Unfortunately, I’m not pleased with the level of progress to this date,” said the minister. However, he assured the Islanders that given the expertise and experience of the members of their government, the situation would be given attention for quicker completion.
In his speech, the minister also promised that government would construct temporary structures to help serve the people before completing the South Caicos structure.
Earlier, Hon. Musgrove also met with the manager of Grand Turk Airport to discuss plans for beautification and enhancement of the facility, which is expected to begin shortly. Refurbishing work will be carried out on the existing café in Grand Turk at the JAGS McCartney International Airport.
While reports on airport development for North Caicos is not new, Minister Musgrove offered that advanced plans have led to serious engagements with the local alliance concerning all flight services to the Island. Mentioned by the Minister as standing to benefit from resumption of commercial air service to North Caicos, are the senior citizens. He said it would help in alleviating the strain on the vulnerable and elderly who are unable to travel on the ferry.
“My people of middle and North Caicos, the government, is at work for you, and you will not be left behind to these airport services,” said the Minister who is also the member of parliament for the twin islands of North and Middle Caicos.
Having scheduled commercial flights betweent the twin islands and Providenciales would be particularly beneficial in supporting island hopping tours, useful in times of rough weather, a bonus for investors and guests who prefer a faster commute and it could lend support when there is the need for medical transport of islanders.
“We are currently reviewing the flight schedule to Salt Cay and make the necessary amendment to accommodate the traveling population on that Island as well,” assured Hon. Musgrove.
The Minister gave update that the TCI Civil Aviation Authority would have a new air traffic control tower complete with the first-ever radar department in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The construction of the tower has been delayed due to the delayed land transfer process.