MBJ Airports Limited will use the recently secured US$60 million loan from Scotiabank to upgrade the Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay.
The upgrade project includes the expansion of the departures retail area, which will feature increased circulation space and an improved retail experience for passengers.
The retail departures area will offer more seating, improved natural lighting, entertainment and exciting retail offerings that will create a memorable experience for passengers to enjoy their last moments in Jamaica.
The retail departures area will offer more seating, improved natural lighting, entertainment and exciting retail offerings.
The airport is also investing in a 1 megawatt solar PV installation solar project to power the airport facility – a move that is expected to significantly reduce operating costs and the airport carbon footprint.
Other projects will include a major upgrade of the airport’s HVAC system to include the installation of new chillers and replacement of the airport’s passenger processing system.
Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports
“These investments will not only improve the passenger experience, but will also result in environmental and economic benefit with our renewable energy initiative. MBJ also intends to reshape the passenger journey with the introduction of next-generation technology to reduce the number of touchpoints and make the passenger experience seamless,” shared Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports.
Perrin Gayle, Senior Vice President, Corporate and Commercial Banking said “Scotiabank is committed to contributing to growth and supporting the local economy. The tourism industry will undoubtedly be positively impacted by this long term investment which will by extension benefit Jamaica for years to come.” Gayle also noted that this is the second such arrangement undertaken over the past two years.
“MBJ continues to demonstrate a commitment to the development and operation of the Sangster International Airport (SIA) to the highest standards as is borne out by its multiple awards as Leading Caribbean Airport. The AAJ will continue its supportive role as grantor of the airport concession to MBJ, as together we play our roles to ensure that Jamaica recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Audley Diedrick, Chairman of the Airport Authority of Jamaica.
In 2018, Scotiabank provided a financing arrangement valued at US$40 million for the rehabilitation of the taxiways and apron.
The investments being undertaken by MBJ demonstrate its confidence that Jamaica will continue to be the destination of choice for passengers and will ensure that the facilities are on par with international standards.
Sangster International Airport is the Caribbean’s leading airport and remains a significant economic driver. SIA employs in excess of 7,000 individuals with over 80 per cent of the businesses locally owned and has contributed over US$230 million directly to the economy of Jamaica.
Source; Loop Jamaica