Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (21 January 2015) Minister for Tourism Hon. Moses Kirkconnell and Airports Authority CEO Albert Anderson hosted H.E the Governor and Government Ministers on Wednesday 21st January, for a site visit of the Owen Roberts International Airport (ORIA).

The visit took place to allow members of the Government an opportunity to view the recent upgrades which form part of the redevelopment and expansion programme being undertaken by the Cayman Islands Airports Authority (CIAA).

The highlight of the tour was the newly erected 3,600ft temporary departures hall which comes into service later this week. The steel framed structure which is designed for airport use, accommodates up to 229 passengers, has four restrooms and is fully equipped with air conditioning and a PA system.

Commenting on the additional benefits offered by the temporary structure, Mr. Anderson explained that ORIA has 8 parking stands for commercial aircraft and for the first time, will be in a position to offer 8 departure gates with individual monitors, eliminating the need for airlines to share space or for passengers to congregate in the same area in preparation for boarding. “Crews will be working around the clock to ensure this new departures area is fully operational and ready to accept travellers from Friday morning,” stated Mr. Anderson. “Once in service, passengers will be able to move back and forth between the temporary departures hall and the existing departures hall to utilise the snack bar and retail stores. With this additional space we expect less congestion which will greatly improve the overall travel experience,” he said.

The tour of the expanded facilities allowed the VIP group to gain a first-hand perspective of the airport experience from the travellers point of view. Starting airside like an arriving passenger, the group walked along the new covered walkway which was installed to provide protection from the sun and rain, and proceeded to the immigration hall and into the baggage collection area.

“I am extremely pleased by the tremendous team effort and willingness by all agencies concerned to improve the flow of passengers so that travellers can be processed quickly and efficiently,” stated Minister Kirkconnell. “At peak periods, our aim is to have immigration booths manned and airport personnel keeping the lines moving to reduce the overspill that backs up outside of the arrivals hall building. We will also be continuing to offer the live music provided by local musicians, who help to add a festive atmosphere and encourage passengers to relax and think happy thoughts about their Caribbean vacation while they are waiting to be processed through the border controls,” he said.

The airport redevelopment project is following an aggressive timeline for completion due to the vital role it plays in underpinning the Islands growing tourism industry. “Expanding the airport to provide a modern facility that offers a superior travel experience is a priority for the Country and for this Government,” explained Minister Kirkconnell. “Although the need for a bigger facility has been recognised and talked about for many years, I am very pleased to have the support and commitment of my colleagues in government to ensure that the expansion of ORIA will be accomplished during this administration for the benefit of the people of the Cayman Islands.”
IMAGES:
PHOTO CAPTION: Airport Authority CEO Albert Anderson informs Government Officials of the benefits of the new temporary departures area at ORIA
PHOTO CAPTION: Government Officials view the baggage screening process in the ORIA baggage hall.
PHOTO CAPTION: The new steel framed temporary departures hall at ORIA