Local News
BVI Welcomes Six American Airlines Flights in One Day, Boosting Tourism
The Government of the Virgin Islands announced on Saturday, February 1, that American Airlines successfully operated six flights to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Officials described the milestone as a reflection of growing confidence in the Territory’s airlift capabilities and its expanding tourism sector.
Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, highlighted the significance of the increased flight operations, stating, “The operation of multiple flights from American Airlines greatly enhances connectivity between the Virgin Islands and the United States, reinforcing the Virgin Islands’ status as a premier Caribbean destination. This increase in air service is expected to facilitate easier access for both visitors and residents, ultimately driving higher travel volumes and stimulating economic activity throughout the region.”
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro, emphasized the role of infrastructure development in supporting the growing demand for air travel. “With air travel demand to the Virgin Islands on the rise, enhancing airport facilities is crucial for accommodating future growth,” she said. “The successful operation of these six flights underscores the importance of modernizing infrastructure to welcome more flights and passengers, and supporting the goal of establishing a vibrant year-round tourism industry in the Territory.”
Managing Director for the BVI Airports Authority, Mr. Kurt Menal, described the event as a step forward in the Territory’s airlift strategy. “The operation of these six flights by American Airlines not only marks a significant achievement in airlift capacity but also reflects a strong commitment to fostering economic prosperity in the Virgin Islands,” he said. “This event opens new opportunities for tourism development while reinforcing plans for further airport enhancements to meet increasing demand.”
The Ministry of Communications and Works reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing development and maintenance of public infrastructure, ensuring that utilities remain reliable and affordable. Officials noted that continued investment in the Territory’s aviation sector is essential for sustaining economic growth and improving connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
