The BVI Airports Authority has been elected to serve as an Advisor on the Governing Board of Airports Council International – Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC).

As of January 2023, ACI boasts 712 members, operating in 1925 airports across 171 countries. The council, organized in a federal manner, comprises ACI World and five ACI Regions: Africa, Asia-Pacific and Middle East, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America.

Having joined the council in 2019, the BVI Airports Authority’s recent election to the Advisory role on the Governing Board occurred during the ACI-LAC Annual Assembly Conference and Exhibition in Miami, held from November 5 to 7. Managing Director Mr. Kurt Menal, leading the delegation, reiterated the Authority’s commitment to being a proactive player in regional aviation.

“Our two-year term as an advisor will see the Authority actively contributing to the council’s mission and vision, with a particular focus on air transport liberalization in Latin America and the Caribbean and addressing the perennial issue of intra-regional connectivity,” stated Mr. Menal.

Participating in a panel discussion on air transport liberalization, Mr. Menal emphasized the Authority’s expertise and dedication to shaping the future of aviation in the region. He highlighted the significance of the appointment, positioning the Authority as a leader in aviation and an advocate for regional airports.

“The Governing Board of ACI ensures that policy recommendations represent the collective interests of ACI members. The Authority’s appointment will allow us to provide crucial leadership and act as a strategic link between the Authority and over 700 business partners associated with ACI-LAC,” explained Mr. Menal, foreseeing strengthened collaboration with the Government of the Virgin Islands, particularly in the ambitious Airport development project.

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Theodore Burke, commended the Authority on this significant milestone, stating, “It is indeed an honor for the Authority to champion the cause of smaller airports in the Caribbean. This prestigious appointment recognizes our commitment to excellence and provides an unparalleled opportunity for our staff to be exposed to international best practices and development.”

In addition to the advisory role, the Authority is represented on several ACI-LAC sub-committees, including Safety, Environment, Commercial & Economics, General Aviation, and Human Resources. Staff members specializing in these areas contribute to capacity building and expand their professional networks.

The Airports Council International collaborates with governments, regional ACI members, experts, and international organizations to develop policies, programs, and best practices that advance airport standards globally.