New International Airport Heralds’ Economic Transformation for Barbuda

• The official opening of Barbuda’s new international airport marks a significant milestone for the island’s economic development.
• The Barbuda International Airport, soon to be renamed the Burton-Nibbs International Airport, is expected to bring numerous benefits to the sister island of Antigua and Barbuda. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, in his remarks during the ceremony, emphasised that the airport will catalyze growth and development.
• “This in essence will actually open up Barbuda. It’s going to be the catalyst for growth and development to attract more tourists and investments, increased trade, and an enormous amount of opportunities, including career opportunities for Barbudan people,” he said.
• The 6,100-foot runway can accommodate larger aircraft, including private jets and planes as large as the Embraer E170 which typically seats around 72 passengers, opening up possibilities for direct flights from North America and Europe soon.
• Prime Minister Browne also emphasised his vision for Barbuda’s development, stating that the island would soon have access to many of the amenities currently available in Antigua.
• Looking ahead, Barbuda is anticipated to see other developments including the repurposing of $35Mn in funding to build out concrete road infrastructure, with construction expected to begin in 2025. Educational opportunities are also set to be enhanced with the establishment of a branch of the Antigua and Barbuda Institute of Continuing Education (ABICE) on the island.

(Source: Antigua Observer)