Above: St Lucia

By the Caribbean Journal staff

St Lucia is planning a redevelopment of its Hewanorra International Airport, according to St Lucia Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony.

The government has already tapped the International Finance Corporation as the lead advisor to assist the St Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority and the government structure a public-private partnership to redevelop the facility, which sees around 660,000 passengers every year.

In a statement, the government said that, despite its load, the airport “faces severe congestion in its terminal and the area where aircraft are parked, unloaded and boarded.”

“This significantly limits its ability to support current passenger traffic and future growth in traffic. The tourism industry is a key engine of Saint Lucia’s economy, making a significant contribution to gross domestic product,” the government said.

The IFC will be conducting a “detailed technical, legal and financial analysis of the airport, a comprehensive assessment of development options, and recommend a transaction structure,” the government said.

“The redevelopment of the Hewanorra International Airport will support Saint Lucia’s long-term economic and social development,” Anthony said. “With support from IFC, we are engaging in a transparent process to ensure the airport is redeveloped to international standards, attracts the best airport management, and creates opportunities for the people of Saint Lucia.”