Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness has unveiled plans for a new international airport in Negril, alongside a new terminal at Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, as part of his government’s continued investment in Jamaica’s transport infrastructure.
Speaking at the Sandals Jamaica Love Tour on Wednesday, October 16, Holness highlighted his administration’s efforts to improve the island’s connectivity, noting that upgrades to Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston are also already underway.
The development of an international airport in Negril has been long anticipated. Transportation Minister Daryl Vaz hinted at the project last year but did not provide a timeline. In October, Vaz shared more details, stating, “In Negril, there is a consultant that has been brought on board to do a master plan for the expansion of the Negril Aerodrome to become an international airport. That also will have a huge impact in relation to taking some of the pressure off of the MBJ airport.”
Additionally, the government is considering designating Negril as its own parish.
In addition to the airport projects, Holness outlined several other major infrastructure developments, including the ongoing US$320 million South Coast Highway, which will connect Harbour View in East Kingston to Port Antonio, Portland. He also mentioned the US$225 million perimeter road being constructed in Montego Bay, and the planned Lucea bypass in Hanover, which will require significant investment.
Holness emphasized that these projects would enhance the ease of travel for visitors across the island, boosting tourism in less developed regions like Portland and St. Mary, known for their natural beauty.
During his address, the prime minister reflected on his administration’s achievements over the past eight years, crediting the Jamaican people for their resilience and sacrifice in achieving record-low unemployment of 4.2%, halving the country’s external debt, and creating a more stable economic environment.
“We are at an inflection point where we can turn our potential into reality, where our results can be greater than our efforts to achieve them,” Holness said, expressing gratitude to the tourism sector and visitors for their role in Jamaica’s progress.
