Progress is being made meeting international regulatory infrastructure requirements at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Photo: VINO

The Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport. Photo: VINO

The the installation of speed bumps and bollards in front of the terminal of the T.B. Lettsome International Airport will safeguard against a potential blast radius. Photo: VINO

Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA), Mr Kurt A.G. Menal, expressed his satisfaction with the progress made in meeting international regulatory infrastructure requirements at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Photo: Facebook

In a video posted to the BVIAA's Facebook page on Friday, August 22, 2025, Mr Menal provided an update on a project aimed at enhancing the airport's infrastructure and assisting individuals with disabilities.

“As an airport authority, we recognise that the implementation of these regulatory requirements will impact the travelling public. We aim to ensure that this impact is not as adverse as it could be," he stated. 

Minimising inconvenience to travellers

He explained that the intention is to minimise inconveniences caused to travellers by constructing a canopy that stretches from the east to the west, with extensions along the crossing area to the terminal building.

"Ultimately, our business is about customer experience," he added.

The Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport serves the public, and therefore, the BVIAA is committed to meeting international requirements and obligations, satisfying regulators, and enhancing the customer experience.

“In the near future, you will see the construction of the canopy, and airlines will partner with us to provide services for travellers with disabilities, including a wheelchair service. We will also establish a porter service at the airport, allowing arriving and departing passengers the option to have a porter assist with their bags from customs and the check-in area," Menal shared.

International measures being implemented 

Regarding regulatory compliance, he mentioned, "We have been in discussions and meaningful dialogues with the Air Safety Support International since 2021. We implemented short-term measures to address various concerns and provide necessary mitigation."

Among the measures discussed with regulatory authorities are the installation of speed bumps and bollards in front of the terminal to safeguard against a potential blast radius.

Additionally, Menal noted that they have engaged the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force to increase their presence at the airport, ensuring that vehicles do not linger at the front for too long.

“We were able to meet some of the requirements; however, the ultimate goal is to achieve a 100-foot separation from the terminal, aligning with international standards," Mr Menal concluded.