Bright prospects from airline traffic

CHAIRMAN OF the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), Dennis Morrison, is predicting some good fortune with the increased intensity of air traffic at the Sangster International Airport in the months ahead.

According to Morrison, the airport has outgrown its capacity, hence the need to modernise and expand the facility in order to meet current demand and create additional capacity to accommodate the anticipated growth.

Dennis Morrison

He said that the new-look airport will be able to handle the traffic while making a favourable impression on visitors.

"Additionally, the airlines coming in will create more jobs in terms of ticketing, baggage handling and other related jobs.

INDIRECT JOB OPPORTUNITIES

"Currently, building activities now underway are creating jobs in the construction industry, and even more business and local employment opportunities will be created when the expansion project is completed," he said.

According to the AAJ chairman, indirect job opportunities will be created for people who provide goods and services to the airport itself.

He also pointed out that post 9/11, visitor arrivals had been steadily increasing due to increased marketing by private sector organisations with a stake in tourism as well as the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB).

"In response to their efforts we are seeing new airlines coming to Jamaica, as well as existing airlines increasing their flights, particularly US Air, which has significantly expanded its operations," he added.

Asked where the cash-strapped national carrier ­ Air Jamaica stood in the competition with so many airlines tapping into the market, Mr. Morrison responded: "Air Jamaica is holding its own. It has cut back on some of its activities but that is in relation to its financial challenges. However, with its current fleet size, it is carrying good loads. This shows that Air Jamaica is on a recovery path."