Above: Abaco

By the Caribbean Journal staff

The Bahamian Ministry of Transport is pursuing the option of “private management” for the Marsh Harbour Airport in Abaco, according to the government.

So far, three companies have responded to a Request For Proposals to manage, develop and operate the airport, the Ministry said. The invitation for bids from “qualified Bahamian firms” was first advertised four months ago.

The move is part of a wider plan to ensure that all Family Island airports become “self sufficient,” according to Deputy Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis.

“This would reduce the strain on the public purse and simultaneously, generate a new revenue stream for the government,” Davis said, pointing to what he called an “unsustainable” current model.

The airport is currently in the midst of a major expansion project.