PACKAL reveals five-year transformation plan for Kingston airport

ABIGAIL BARRETT / Our Today

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PAC Kingston Airport Limited (PACKAL) CEO, Sitara English-Byfield gives media representatives a tour of the new infrastructure of Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA), including installing Kiosk machines for easier check-in. (Photo: Oraine Meikle)

PAC Kingston Airport Limited (PACKAL) have begun an extensive five-year development plan aimed at transforming Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) into an elite facility.

This initiative follows the completion of several upgrades since 2019, which were highlighted during a recent media tour and in which CEO Sitara English-Byfield emphasised the airport’s steadfastness in its mission of enhancements geared toward safety, passenger experience, and sustainability.

“While we’ve made significant progress, the best is yet to come,” she stated, outlining the vision for future improvements that support Kingston’s economic growth through tourism.

Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) waiting area (Barita wall). (Photo: Oraine Meikle)

Notable projects in the new plan include rehabilitating the apron and taxiways and a 300-metre runway extension to improve safety. Additionally, enhancements to passenger facilities are planned, including upgrades to customs and arrivals areas and an expanded departure lounge.

Recent improvements since 2019 include the rehabilitation of Runway 12-30, the installation of a 2.8-megawatt solar farm, and various terminal upgrades. NMIA has also achieved multiple certifications that highlight its duty to ensure quality and sustainability.

(From Left) Kingston Airport Limited (PACKAL) Director of Human and Cultural Compliance Nicole Burgher with CEO Sitara English-Byfield and members of various media outlets. (Photo: Oraine Meikle)

Current construction projects involve restroom expansions and inclusivity (installations of baby changers in men’s bathroom), automated survey buttons at some entrances, and tiling work, motioning the start of PACKAL’s vision for NMIA.

English-Byfield acknowledged the need for passengers’ patience during the ongoing upgrades, noting that the airport is not closed for renovations to take place, and they are doing all they can to mitigate traveller discomfort.

“We want this airport to represent Jamaica well,” said English-Byfield. “We are always measuring, and getting feedback from our customers to see where we can improve.”

With over 3,000 staff, including 11 Certified International Airport Professionals, PACKAL’s goal is to enhance service delivery while navigating the challenges of this ambitious transformation plan.

Some photos from the tour: