US$34 million earmarked for Vernamfield lights upgrade, Gov’t plans major aviation overhaul
Vanassa McKenzie / Our Today
Minister of Transport Daryl Vaz says approximately US$34 million will be allocated during the 2025/26 financial year towards a light upgrade project at the Vernamfield Aerodrome in Clarendon.
Vaz, who made the disclosure during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate on Tuesday (June 4), said this move comes as the government seeks to upgrade the local aviation sector.
“Madam Speaker, we are looking to improve the aviation sector on the local side with Vernamfield; a total of US$34 million allocated in this budget for acquisition at Vernamfield as a prerequisite to the implementation of the Vernamfield light upgrade project,” he shared.
He also noted that plans to acquire and upgrade the Lionel Densham Aerodrome in St. Elizabeth are far advanced, following approval by the Ministry of Finance. The project is valued at J$100 million.
Additionally, the transport minister said an acquisition by lease of the Holland Bamboo airstrip is to be done to facilitate an overdue facility reactivation.
“This will make possible airlift to residents and tourism attractions in the area, such as Appleton Estate and YS Falls. The Airport Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) is now taking preliminary steps to secure the property,” he said.
The AAJ is also analysing the potential of the Ken Jones Aerodrome in Portland to provide airlift capability for eastern Jamaica in response to anticipated tourism development in the region.
“Consultants have been engaged by the AAJ to undertake a master planning exercise for the upgrading and development of an international airport at the Negril domestic aerodrome. The plan is expected to be completed by July 2024,” Vaz advised.
He said the master planning exercise will determine the best area in Negril for the development of the airport.
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