JHTA welcomes Govt’s decision to advance the Lionel Densham Aerodrome project in St. Elizabeth

October 20, 2026

The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) has welcomed the Government’s decision to advance the Lionel Densham Aerodrome project in St. Elizabeth.

The JHTA has also endorsed the move as a strategic investment in the future of the South Coast and of Jamaica’s tourism product.

During a post-Cabinet press briefing last Wednesday, Transport Minister Daryl Vaz outlined that the Airports Authority of Jamaica was completing five technical studies requested by the Planning Institute of Jamaica and the Public Investment Appraisal Branch (PIAB).

These cover geotechnical investigations, socio-economic impact, environmental and climate assessments and preliminary engineering and drainage designs.

The Government is targeting December 23, 2026 to resubmit the revised proposal to PIAB.

Reacting to the announcement, JHTA President O’Brien Heron said air access shapes what a destination can become.

He also noted that a modern aerodrome in St. Elizabeth would bring the South Coast within easy reach of visitors and investors and open the door to the kind of distinctive, community-rooted experiences that set Jamaica apart.

He commended the Government for moving this project forward with clear milestones and encouraged every agency involved to hold to that timetable.

The JHTA said it views the aerodrome as a powerful signal of confidence in the region’s recovery and a platform for its next phase of growth.