NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2024 2 AAJ 50TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE AS WE celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), it is with great pride and admiration that I reflect on the significant strides this esteemed organisation has made since its inception in 1974. The AAJ has not only been a cornerstone of Jamaica’s aviation industry, but also a pivotal player in the development and modernisation of our nation’s airports, contributing immensely to our tourism and economic growth. The establishment of the AAJ marked a transformative period in Jamaica’s history, introducing a dedicated body responsible for the ownership, management, and control of our international airports. From the initial management of Norman Manley International Airport and Sangster International Airport to the expansion of its portfolio to include our domestic aerodromes, the AAJ has consistently demonstrated excellence and innovation. The journey of the AAJ is one of vision and resilience, embracing modernisation through public-private partnerships and ensuring our airports meet global standards. The privatisation efforts in the late 1990s and subsequent upgrades have positioned Jamaica as a key aviation hub in the Caribbean and the Americas. As we commemorate this golden milestone, we honour the dedicated employees and partners whose unwavering commitment and hard work have been instrumental in the AAJ’s success. Their contributions have not only enhanced the travel experience but also fortified Jamaica’s standing in the global aviation industry. Congratulations to the Airports Authority of Jamaica on this remarkable achievement. May the next 50 years be filled with continued growth, innovation, and success. HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST HONOURABLE SIR PATRICK ALLEN, ON, GCMG, CD, KST.J Governor General Consistently excellent and innovative I AM pleased to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. For half a century, the AAJ has been steadfast in its mission, truly embodying the tagline, ‘Modernizing and Growing Jamaica’s Airports – Since 1974.’ From inception on July 26, 1974, the AAJ has grown from managing the Norman Manley International Airport and Sangster International Airport to overseeing a comprehensive airport transit system that includes domestic aerodromes and the Ian Fleming International Airport. This remarkable and strategic journey of growth and modernisation displays a greater vision of building and sustaining a world-class air transport system that positions Jamaica as the gateway of the Caribbean and the Americas. Indeed, I applaud the AAJ’s successful plans for the privatisation of the facilities through public-private partnership (PPP) agreements, which have modernised and expanded our major international airports. The PPP has ensured our major airports meet the demands of increasing passenger traffic driven by the robust growth of our tourism sector with modern features such as duty-free shops and restaurants in the terminals. The operational transitions at Sangster International Airport and Norman Manley International Airport, under MBJ Airports Limited and PAC Kingston Airports Limited, respectively, have set exemplary standards in airport management and service delivery. The Government and air travelling public can expect more improvements and efficiencies as the port continues. The AAJ’s efforts in developing infrastructure, extending runways, and enhancing support services have facilitated tourism and the broader air transportation industry and its related sectors, providing a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible airport systems. As you celebrate this golden milestone, it is also a moment to acknowledge the visionary leadership and the collective efforts of all stakeholders, past and present, who have been partners on your remarkable journey.Your resilience and innovation in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities have been instrumental in positioning Jamaica’s airports among the best in the region. Looking ahead, I am confident that the AAJ will continue to spearhead initiatives that will further elevate the air transportation sector in Jamaica, fostering private investment, and partnerships that will drive sustainable growth. Once again, congratulations to the AAJ and its partners and stakeholders, and I wish for you on this golden jubilee continued excellence, innovation, and growth for the next 50 years and beyond. THE MOST HON ANDREW HOLNESS, ON, PC, MP Prime Minister Continued excellence, innovation, and growth for the next 50 years and beyond
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