BVI IAC backs Gov’t with BVI Airways
Speaking at a press briefing recently as the BVI IAC and Business BVI prepare for the third international conference scheduled for June 1 and 2, 2017, Mr. Lassalle said that accessibility and being able to move merchandise is one of the enablers for a successful and thriving economy.
Noting the importance of business tourism something the BVI IAC which was launched to provide services in addition to international and local dispute resolution, sees as another economic puller on which this territory can thrive.
"Perceptions exist outside of the BVI that it is difficult to get to the BVI in the business community. Saying that you have got to a one stop from Miami is actually a really easy one-liner that I will use personally to kind of dissipate that wrong perception that the BVI is a really bad destination to get to," added Mr. Lassalle.He further stated, "I think improved airlift is really good for the country and for business in general. Improving accessibility is one of the key things....I think the Government is doing the right thing in terms of new legislation to facilitate entry."
He further stated, "I think improved airlift is really good for the country and for business in general. Improving accessibility is one of the key things....I think the Government is doing the right thing in terms of new legislation to facilitate entry."
The Government chose to plug $7.2 million dollars into BVI Airways, a company saturated with foreigners, to get them to be the flag carrier for this territory. This became a controversial move as many felt the investment should have gone to the local air carrier, BVI Airlink.
While BVI Airways has received approval from the USA Department of Transportation to fly between the USA and the Virgin Islands (British), they are yet to make at least one such flight. Additionally, there are controversies surrounding the true owners of the airline while allegations are that they are seeking more monies from government. Currently, to keep their heads above the water, they have leased one of the planes to another company as a way of raking in some revenue.
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10 Responses to “BVI IAC backs Gov’t with BVI Airways ”
Of course BVI Business is on board. He is also head of the tourist board.
There are separate issues here-- having efficient and reliable service from the smaller planes that can use the current runway, or 2) extend the runway for bigger planes (which also are incredibly noisy and polluting). The cart is getting before the horse. We can't even get efficient and reliable schedules to anywhere, don't have full capacity carrying, to even WARRANT the expensive longer runway. Plus- it is not financially viable for the larger planes. First things first.
It appeared obvious that the wheels are in motion for something big to happen in this territory, sooner or later whether we like it or not, so be prepared mentally.