The Argyle International Airport (AIA) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has received RA3 certification, clearing the way for direct air cargo shipments to the United Kingdom and European Union.
The announcement, made on Thursday in collaboration with the British High Commission in Kingstown, marks a significant upgrade for the country’s export capabilities. RA3, which stands for Regulated Agent – Third Country, is a key designation required for airports outside the UK and EU to send cargo directly into those markets under aviation security regulations.
Resident British Commissioner Geoffrey Patton described the certification as a major step forward for local trade.
“This certification means that fresh produce, fresh flowers, agricultural produce can now be exported via air directly to the United Kingdom without having to go through a third-party country,” Patton said. He added that the move opens new pathways for business between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the UK.
AIA Chief Executive Officer Josette Greaves said the airport has now met all required UK and EU aviation security standards for screening, handling, and transporting cargo to those regions. The approval allows approved airlines operating at AIA to ship cargo without additional security checks or transshipment on the way.
Greaves thanked independent validator Brian Abbott of World AVSEC, who has Vincentian heritage, for his role in achieving the milestone. She also urged airport employees, passengers, and all stakeholders to maintain strict security protocols to protect travelers and ensure continued compliance.
“The AIA conducts security screening not to inconvenience anyone, but to ensure we are able to accomplish milestones such as RA3 certification and, more importantly, that everyone remains safe,” she said.
The airport expects the certification to boost agricultural exports and strengthen SVG’s integration into international trade networks.
