The first phase of the runway expansion project at the T.B. Lettsome International Airport will add 787 feet to the Western end of the existing runway. Photo: Internet Source

Minister for Communications and Works, Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5), revealed that the BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA) received two tenders for the West runway extension project at the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport. YouTube/HoA

The Notice to Tenderers for a runway extension of 787 feet was issued through the British Virgin Islands Airports Authority (VIAA) on May 27, 2026. Photo: BVIAA

Hon Rymer disclosed this during the Continuation of the Fifth Sitting of the Third Session of the Third House of Assembly, on October 21, 2026. 

He explained that the west runway extension project is the first phase of a wider programme which will ultimately give the airport a runway of approximately 7000 feet. 

“This first phase will add 787 feet to the Western end of the existing runway.”

Technical submission being assessed

The open and competitive tender process, he said, was undertaken under reference BVIAA/RFP/2026/WRE-01. 

“Throughout the tender period, every clarification and addendum was issued formally and equally to all participating firms, and each submission has been carefully recorded so that the process remains fair, transparent and fully accountable. I can report that the Authority has received 2 tenders.”

Hon Rymer said the technical submissions are now being assessed by an evaluation team, following which the financial submissions will then be opened and the tendered prices formally established and announced. 

“The evaluation is being conducted in accordance with all applicable procurement requirements, and this Honourable House and the public will be duly informed once the process has concluded.”

The future of the VI’s aviation sector

The Minister said this project is of strategic importance to the future of the BVIAA and the Virgin Islands’ aviation sector. 

“The additional runway link will allow aircraft to operate with fewer weight restrictions, which in turn supports a greater passenger and cargo capacity and improved operational reliability. It will strengthen the efficiency and resilience of our existing operations while laying the foundation for the broader runway development to come.”

Hon Rymer assured his colleagues in the House and the public that the project is considered one of the most significant in the history of the airport. 

“[It] is being handled with care and integrity that the people of the Virgin Islands rightly expect.”

Projects like these, Hon Rymer said, belong to the people, adding that as they progress, the BVIAA remains committed to facilitating meaningful participation by local contractors, skilled workers and service providers wherever practicable. 

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), has already announced that the contract for this project will be awarded in December 2026. 

See link to related article 

Budget Speech: Airport runway extension contract to be awarded in December