The former Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA), Mr Kurt A. G. Menal, has said his decision to tender his resignation was in the best interest of his personal and professional well-being. Photo: Facebook/File

Part of the LinkedIn post made by Mr Kurt A.G. Menal on May 27, 2026. Photo: LinkedIn

Mr Kurt A.G. Menal said he was especially proud to have played a key role in the meaningful engagement with American Eagle/Envoy that resulted in the establishment of non-stop service between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS). Photo: GIS/File

Menal’s sudden resignation came on Thursday, May 7, 2026, and there was mixed information as to what led to his resignation, as some Board Members claimed that he wanted to give a three-month notice, but was told, as is the practice, he needed to go effective immediately.

"I made a decision for my personal and professional well-being," the St Lucian told JTV News on May 27, 2026.

He also rejected suggestions that he had been forced out or instructed to resign.

"No, I resigned and gave three months’ notice, but the Board exercised its option to pay in lieu of notice," JTV reported Menal as saying.

‘The time had come’

Meanwhile, Menal published on LinkedIn on May 27, 2026, that “after just over four remarkable years” serving as Managing Director of the British Virgin Islands Airports Authority, the time had come for him to close “this meaningful chapter” of his professional journey.

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve the people of the Virgin Islands and contribute to the advancement of the aviation sector, tourism industry, and broader economy.”

Successful tenure

The tenure of Mr Menal at the BVIAA has been regarded by many as a success story, and many expressed those sentiments in response to his LinkedIn post captioned 'Farewell BVIAA'.

Menal said that when he assumed his role at the BVIAA, one of the key priorities was strengthening air connectivity and positioning the VI for sustainable growth. “Through strategic air service development initiatives and targeted airline engagement, we successfully increased passenger traffic from 176,000 passengers in 2022 to 317,676 passengers in 2025 (an 80% increase), a significant milestone that reflects the growing confidence in the destination and the collective efforts of many committed stakeholders.

He also said he was especially proud to have played a key role in the meaningful engagement with American Eagle/Envoy that resulted in the establishment of non-stop service between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS).

During Mena’s tenure, several important capital projects aimed at improving operational efficiency, strengthening airport systems, and enhancing the overall passenger experience were undertaken.

Elevating the profile & influence of BVIAA

Beyond infrastructure and connectivity, Mr Menal said he was particularly proud of the progress made in elevating the profile and influence of the BVI Airports Authority within the regional and international aviation community.

“I proudly represented the BVI on the Airlift Committee of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) as both a member and Deputy Chair, advocating on behalf of the British Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean region. We worked collaboratively as regional stakeholders to advance the mandate established by the Council of Ministers, emphasising the critical and inextricable relationship between airlift connectivity and tourism development.”

One of the areas Mr Menal said gave him immense pride was the commitment to people development. He said training and professional advancement were central pillars of the BVIAA’s strategy, and staff at all levels were provided with opportunities for training and exposure aimed at enhancing their expertise, strengthening operational competencies, and ultimately benefiting the organisation as a whole.

“Most importantly, I had the pleasure of working alongside an exceptional team at the BVI Airports Authority. Their dedication, professionalism, resilience, and commitment to excellence made every achievement possible. I will always hold many fond memories of our time working together.”

Mr Menal extended “sincere thanks” to the Government of the Virgin Islands for entrusting him with the opportunity to serve over the past four years.

“The British Virgin Islands will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to seeing the Territory continue to soar to even greater heights.”

See related articles below:

Was Kurt A.G. Menal forced out? Resigned abruptly as MD of BVIAA

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