The British Virgin Islands Airports Authority (BVIAA) was elevated to to a Governing Member of Airports Council International- Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC). Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

BVIAA Managing Director Mr. Kurt A. G. Menal speaking at recently heal ACI-LAC Meeting. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

In a press release dated Friday, October 10, 2025, Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5), Minister for Communications and Works, commended the BVIAA for securing a leadership position that comes at a pivotal time for the Territory’s aviation development. 

He stated, "This appointment is both an important recognition of the BVIAA’s achievements and a timely strategic opportunity for the Virgin Islands."

Rymer added,  “As we advance our runway extension and airport expansion programme, the strengthened regional ties and direct access to global expertise provided through ACI-LAC will help accelerate our efforts to deliver a modern, safe, and internationally compliant airport.” 

He also praised BVIAA Managing Director Mr Kurt A. G. Menal and the BVIAA team for enhancing the Territory’s visibility and influence within the regional aviation community.  

Enhanced opportunities

The press release explained that the BVIAA’s new Governing Member status enhances opportunities for technical cooperation, access to international best practices in airport design and operations, and engagement with funding and partnership networks aligned with the Government’s expansion objectives. Insights on air-service liberalisation, sustainability, and airport modernisation gained through ACI-LAC will be directly applied to the Territory’s runway and terminal planning to ensure compliance with international standards and environmental best practices.

Furthermore, through this membership, the BVIAA will benefit from technical assistance, knowledge sharing, and capacity-building programmes that strengthen local expertise in project management, procurement, and operational readiness. These initiatives will inform the engineering, environmental mitigation, and phased construction sequencing for upcoming runway extensions and terminal upgrades.

The expanded access to regional partners and financing mechanisms is also expected to support timely and cost-effective project delivery.

Additionally, Minister Rymer remarked, “This milestone, achieved under the stewardship of Mr Kurt Menal and the BVIAA team, strengthens our capacity to realise a modern, expanded airport that meets global standards and supports sustainable growth for our people and the Ministry remains fully committed to working with the BVIAA, regional partners, and stakeholders to ensure steady progress toward our shared vision.”