The Government of Guyana is advancing an ambitious programme to transform domestic aviation, with bids for about 34 airstrip projects under evaluation as part of a nationwide initiative to develop and modernise nearly 60 airstrips. The investment is expected to improve transport links, stimulate economic activity and provide greater access to remote communities, particularly in the hinterland.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, outlined the Government’s plans at the Canada–Guyana Business Forum 2026, organised by the Canada–Guyana Chamber of Commerce at the Atlantic Suites Hotel in Georgetown on Monday.
Speaking to business leaders, investors and other stakeholders, Minister Indar emphasised that expanding Guyana’s aviation infrastructure is a critical component of the Government’s wider development agenda. As economic activity continues to rise across the country, improving transport networks has become an important priority to support investment, tourism, trade and regional development.
According to the Minister, the Government is undertaking a substantial expansion of domestic aviation facilities, with nearly 60 airstrips included in its development programme. The Government has already closed the procurement process for about 34 projects and is now evaluating the submitted bids. The programme expects to advertise the remaining projects for tender as it progresses.
The initiative is particularly significant for hinterland communities, where geographical challenges and limited road infrastructure make aviation one of the most reliable forms of transport. By improving airstrip facilities, the Government aims to make travel safer, strengthen the movement of goods and passengers, and provide communities with more reliable access to essential services.
The latest announcement builds on earlier commitments by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who disclosed in July that engineering assessments had been completed for more than 30 airstrips across Guyana. Those assessments established the technical foundation for the next phase of infrastructure improvements under the Government’s hinterland aviation development programme.
Vice President Jagdeo explained that the government would upgrade several existing airstrips from laterite to concrete surfaces to improve operational safety, durability, and year-round accessibility. These improvements are particularly important during heavy rainfall, when deteriorating airstrip conditions can disrupt flights and isolate communities.
Priority locations identified include Mabaruma and Port Kaituma, and communities in Regions Seven and Eight are also expected to benefit from the expansion and modernisation of aviation facilities.
The Government has demonstrated its financial commitment to the programme by allocating $4 billion in Budget 2026 for the continued construction, rehabilitation and upgrading of hinterland and coastal airstrips.
The funding will support the completion of ongoing projects at Ekereku Bottom, Jawalla, Kaikan and Matthew’s Ridge. New work is also scheduled to begin at several other locations, including Mahdia, Linden, and Mabaruma.
These investments follow approximately $2.5 billion spent on hinterland airstrip development in 2025. That expenditure supported infrastructure improvements at several locations, with works completed at Aishalton, Kaieteur, Karisparu, Kwakwani and Paramakatoi.
Beyond improving transport, the programme is expected to create new opportunities for economic diversification. Improved aviation facilities could attract greater investment in eco-tourism, hospitality, agriculture, mining and other commercial activities in areas that have historically faced accessibility challenges.
Guyana’s hinterland is home to some of the country’s most distinctive natural attractions, including waterfalls, rainforests and wildlife destinations. Improved air connectivity could make these locations more accessible to domestic and international visitors, supporting tourism operators, accommodation providers and small businesses.
Reliable air transportation also plays an essential role in delivering healthcare and emergency services. For residents of isolated communities, improved airstrips can facilitate medical evacuations, transport supplies, and provide access to educational and administrative services that may otherwise require lengthy journeys.
The aviation expansion programme is therefore expected to contribute not only to economic growth but also to improving the quality of life for residents in remote areas.
In addition to the nationwide airstrip development initiative, Minister Indar revealed that the Government is advancing plans for two further airports, further strengthening Guyana’s long-term aviation capacity.
The proposed facilities include a Code 3C airport in Berbice and a Code 4E airport in Lethem. These projects mark another important step towards expanding the country’s aviation network and supporting increased passenger and cargo traffic.
The proposed Berbice airport could improve access to eastern Guyana, where expanding commercial and industrial activities are driving increased demand for modern transport infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the planned airport in Lethem is expected to improve connectivity in the country’s southern region, where improved transport links could support tourism, trade and business activity linked to Guyana’s growing economic relationship with Brazil.
Minister Indar stressed that continued development of domestic and international aviation infrastructure is essential to ensure Guyana’s transport capabilities remain aligned with its expanding economy.
The Government’s broader aviation strategy reflects its determination to reduce regional transport disparities and create a more integrated national economy. By investing in airstrips, regional airports, and supporting infrastructure, Guyana seeks to build a more accessible, efficient transport system that serves communities and businesses across the country.
With billions of dollars already committed and additional projects moving through procurement, Guyana’s aviation network expansion is set to remain a major component of the Government’s infrastructure development programme.
As the country continues its economic transformation, improved aviation connectivity is expected to play an increasingly important role in connecting hinterland communities to major commercial centres, attracting investment and ensuring that the benefits of national development reach every region of Guyana.