NMIA, Ian Fleming could reopen tomorrow; Sangster uncertain

There is a strong possibility that Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston could reopen on Thursday, according to Audley Deidrick, head of the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ).

Deidrick told The Gleaner that the AAJ, which oversees airport operations across Jamaica, is targeting a possible Thursday reopening for NMIA. However, he emphasised that the initial reopening would likely focus on facilitating rescue and relief efforts, depending on the extent of Hurricane Melissa’s impact.

“Commercial operation could resume no later than Friday, again, depending on how much of an impact there is to the airport,” he said.

He added that the return of commercial flights would also depend on access to the facility and the condition of surrounding roadways following the hurricane.

Regarding the Ian Fleming International Airport in St Mary, Deidrick said a Thursday reopening is also possible, contingent on the level of damage sustained.

There remains greater uncertainty surrounding the resumption of operations at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St James. Deidrick noted that Sangster is more likely to experience significant effects from Hurricane Melissa, given the storm’s projected path.

Airports in Jamaica have been closed since Sunday midday as Hurricane Melissa began closing in on the island.

– Lester Hinds