Saint Lucia expects the Hewanorra International Airport (HIA) project to create hundreds of new permanent jobs.
Prime Minister Allen Chastanet made the observation on his official Facebook page.
A few weeks ago, he toured the site preparation work.
The PM described the project as the largest in this country’s history.
But he explained that when most people think of an airport, they think only of tourism industry benefits.
However, Chastanet said tourism is only one beneficiary.
“Airports play a pivotal role in the economic development of any country,” he stated.
“They facilitate the efficient movement of individuals, products and materials thereby fostering increased trade, employment and business opportunities,” Chastanet observed.
He disclosed that direct employment opportunities include workers from the construction sector when the airport is being built.
“In our case, we estimate well over 500 persons will benefit from employment during the construction phase,” the PM said.
But he also noted that once construction is complete, a significant number of new jobs will be created.
“This is required for a range of services, including airport operations and management, aircraft maintenance, storage facilities,” he revealed.
Chastanet also mentioned charter services and leasing activities,
“We also expect this to create hundreds of new permanent jobs,” he declared.
According to the PM, the new airport will also open new global markets for farmers, fishermen, agro-processors, manufacturers, creative talent and tourism providers.
The HIA Redevelopment Project is a USD $175 million initiative.
The project incorporates a 30-year master plan for the airport.
Project officials say it will improve efficiencies and transform the customer journey
and experience.
The project encompasses three thematic areas with improvements to airside, terminal
and road access – traffic management systems.
Headline photo: PM (Fourth from left) visits HIA redevelopment site
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