{"id":227265,"date":"2025-02-28T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-02-28T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/?p=227265"},"modified":"2025-02-28T06:18:16","modified_gmt":"2025-02-28T10:18:16","slug":"seven-air-traffic-controllers-undergoing-training-in-trinidad-as-antigua-and-barbuda-expands-aviation-workforce","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/seven-air-traffic-controllers-undergoing-training-in-trinidad-as-antigua-and-barbuda-expands-aviation-workforce\/","title":{"rendered":"Seven Air Traffic Controllers Undergoing Training in Trinidad as Antigua and Barbuda Expands Aviation Workforce"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Seven air traffic controllers from Antigua and Barbuda<\/a><\/strong> are currently undergoing specialized training in Trinidad as part of the government\u2019s efforts to strengthen the country\u2019s aviation sector. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tourism and Aviation Minister Charles Fernandez revealed the initiative during a recent parliamentary session, highlighting the need for a well-trained workforce to manage increasing air traffic.<\/p>

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In addition to those in Trinidad, Fernandez noted that another seven controllers recently returned after completing their training, with 35 more set to travel to Spain<\/em> for advanced instruction on operating Antigua and Barbuda\u2019s upgraded radar systems. <\/p>

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The radar upgrade, a $3.5 million investment, aims to enhance air traffic management capabilities at V.C. Bird International Airport<\/em> and ensure the country meets international aviation safety standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meeting Growing Aviation Demand<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The increased focus on air traffic control training comes amid record-breaking visitor arrivals<\/em> and a surge in private jet traffic, which outpaced commercial flights in 2024<\/em>. <\/p>

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Fernandez emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda<\/a><\/strong> must invest in human capital to keep pace with the country\u2019s expanding aviation network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWith the continued growth in air traffic, it is critical that we equip our air traffic controllers with the necessary skills to handle our airspace safely and efficiently,\u201d Fernandez stated. <\/p>

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\u201cThis training is an essential part of our strategy to maintain high international standards.\u201d<\/p>

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Ongoing Investments in Aviation Infrastructure<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The training initiative is part of the government\u2019s broader commitment to upgrading Antigua and Barbuda\u2019s aviation infrastructure. Alongside air services agreements with new international partners<\/em>, key projects include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n