NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2024 3 AAJ 50TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE IT IS with great pleasure that I join the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) in celebrating its 50th anniversary under the theme, ‘Modernizing and Growing Jamaica’s Airports – Since 1974.’ The AAJ has been at the forefront of Jamaica’s aviation industry, playing a pivotal role in the modernisation and expansion of our airports, and contributing significantly to the growth of the nation’s travel and tourism sectors for five decades. The journey of the AAJ has been one of vision and dedication. From its establishment as a self-financed statutory body, overseeing the operations of the Norman Manley International Airport and Sangster International Airport, to its current structure which includes both international and domestic airports, the AAJ has exemplified resilience and forward thinking. Its commitment to world-class service, environmental responsibility, and public-private partnerships has allowed Jamaica’s airports to evolve into vital gateways to the Caribbean and the Americas. Its strategic modernisation and expansion efforts have kept pace with the demands of a growing global industry. By advancing infrastructure and improving service standards, the AAJ has significantly contributed to positioning Jamaica as a premier destination for travellers. The Airports Authority of Jamaica’s impact on our economy, tourism, and infrastructure is undeniable. As Jamaica continues to position itself as a leader in the region, the role of the AAJ remains critical to our progress. I commend the leadership and staff for their continued dedication and contribution to our nation’s development. Congratulations once again on this milestone. May the AAJ continue to soar to greater heights in the years to come. MARK J. GOLDING, MP Leader of the Opposition May the AAJ continue to soar to greater heights HEARTIEST CONGRATULATIONS to the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) on the celebration of their 50th anniversary. This half a century represents a remarkable journey and a significant milestone in the history of Jamaica’s aviation sector. Over the past five decades, the AAJ has been instrumental in the development and modernisation of our nation’s airports, playing a crucial role in connecting Jamaica to the world. The AAJ’s commitment to excellence has transformed our nation’s airports into world-class facilities, fostering tourism, trade, and economic growth. When the Airports Authority of Jamaica was established in 1974, under the Airports Authority Act, it was to manage and control Jamaica’s two main international airports – Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) and Sangster International Airport (SIA). Today, that portfolio has expanded to include the domestic aerodromes in the country. The establishment of the AAJ marked a pivotal shift separating airport management and commercial aspects from regulatory functions in enhancing airport infrastructure, improving passenger experiences and ensuring the highest standards of safety and security. The strategic initiatives that have been undertaken have not only elevated the status of our airports and aerodromes but have also contributed to the overall development and prosperity of Jamaica. As we reflect on the journey of the AAJ’s 50 years, Jamaica can proudly say that the AAJ’s vision has been realised, thanks to the unwavering commitment and hard work of the staff and stakeholders. We have more to look forward to as the future of aviation unfolds. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, it is important to reflect on the tremendous progress made and recognise the hard work and dedication of all those who have been part of this truly remarkable journey. Aviation is a critical sector for any modern economy and the AAJ has been at the forefront and conduit of this industry in Jamaica. Our airports, from Norman Manley International in Kingston to Sangster International in Montego Bay, have been transformed into modern, efficient aviation hubs. These facilities have been upgraded and continue to be upgraded with state-ofthe-art infrastructure, ensuring that they meet international standards and provide a seamless experience for passengers. The ongoing expansion projects and infrastructure upgrades, such as runway extensions at the NMIA, SIA and Ian Fleming International Airport, will enhance capacity and efficiency, ensuring that Jamaica can meet the growing demands of global air travel and Jamaica’s We look forward to more years of excellent service PLEASE SEE SERVICE, 5
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