President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced that the upcoming municipal airports in Rosehall, Region Six, and Lethem, Region Nine, will do more than serve the local area; they will eventually become major aviation hubs for the wider region.
Speaking at the launch of the ICAO Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Plus (NGAP+) Programme on Tuesday at the Pegasus Corporate Suites, the President explained that the government’s vision for these facilities is broad. “We’re developing municipal airports at Lethem and Rosehall Canje. These will not only serve domestic needs, but we’ve also planned to eventually support regional flights, turning these towns into new gateways,” the President said.
He highlighted that Guyana is currently experiencing a major transformation in its aviation sector, with significant investments directed toward modernizing airport infrastructure and enhancing connectivity. He stated that these improvements are part of a broader plan to prepare the country for increased aviation activities and expanded trade opportunities.
We’re upgrading hinterland airstrips, extending runways, and ensuring our physical infrastructure aligns with our economic ambitions. But infrastructure without people isn’t enough,” he noted.
President Ali emphasized that developing human resources is just as important as upgrading physical infrastructure. “The heart of aviation is human expertise; that is why we are going further. In collaboration with the private sector, we’ll establish a top-tier aviation sector and school right here in Guyana. The institution will have one mission: to train and certify Guyanese talent across all areas of aviation, from the cockpit to the control tower, from the hangar floor to the boardroom,” he added.
Earlier this year, the President hinted at the need for municipal airports similar in size and operation to Eugene F. Correia International Airport at Ogle. The rapid changes happening in Region Six, driven by major infrastructure projects and upcoming connectivity with Suriname, were signs that such developments are necessary.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening Guyana’s connections with Brazil, once again pointing to Lethem as a key location for future aviation growth. “And then you have, of course, a road going to Brazil, connected to the new quarter port, the development; we need to develop another municipal airport in Lethem because there’s great potential there. Further inland, Region Seven will see significant progress.”
The President further explained that primary mining operations expected to start by 2027 and 2028 will need enhanced support facilities. “With all the support services, we have two major, large-scale mines that will begin operating by 2027/2028. So, Bartica, Region Seven, will be a key area, and Region 10 will support those investments and initiatives,” the President said.
With these developments underway, Guyana is positioning itself not only to enhance domestic aviation services but also to emerge as a major regional gateway for travel, commerce, and future economic growth.
President Irfaan Ali aims for Guyana to become a major airline gateway to the world. Similar to Dubai, Guyana could develop into an international hub serving both regional and global airlines. As a result, both Lethem and Rosehall should have international airports capable of handling passenger and cargo flights. These airports could function like the new Tobago Airport, which manages international tourism, domestic travel, and cargo operations.