The Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has completed the first phase of a US$55 million airfield rehabilitation project at the V.C. Bird International Airport, marking what officials describe as a major milestone in the airport’s modernization efforts.
The multi-phase project, which began in late August 2025, is aimed at ensuring the country’s primary gateway remains safe, compliant and capable of meeting international aviation standards. Phase One was finalized on February 13, 2026.
Airport officials said the initial works have enhanced the runway’s capacity to accommodate larger and faster aircraft while strengthening safety features. Improvements include the installation of a 7,420-square-metre turning bay, a new blast pad, a runway end safety area and a service road at the runway’s end.
With the upgrades, the airport can now handle long-range aircraft such as the Airbus A350-900, which has a range of nearly 16,000 kilometres.
The eight-phase initiative is being led by Akon Company Limited in collaboration with Kelly Construction and is designed to bring the runway into greater compliance with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Charles Fernandez toured the upgraded runway this week, as officials expressed confidence that the remaining phases will be completed ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting scheduled for November 1–4 in Antigua.
Authorities say the overall rehabilitation is expected to enhance operational efficiency, boost confidence among civil aviation partners and ensure the airport continues to meet the highest international standards.
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