By Samuel Sukhnandan
Boasting increased revenue since regional carrier LIAT began operations there, the Ogle International Airport is now looking to expand its operations in the coming years.
This was disclosed by Ogle International Airport Inc (OAI) Chief Executive Officer Anthony Mekdeci during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times International.
Mekdeci said any regional carrier that was interested in operating out of Ogle was welcome. “Regional carriers, especially those from neighbouring countries, can come no problem. We are happy to receive them.”
At present, LIAT operates daily flights out of the airport.
The OAI chief said since the commencement of these flights from the Caribbean in May, the airport has seen an increase in daily flights, revenue and passenger traffic (about 1500), with a possibility of annual traffic moving from 60,000 to 80,000.
“I understand Brazil and Suriname are interested in on ward traffic out of here into the Caribbean,” Mekdeci said.
According to him, Caribbean Airlines has had discussion with OAI, looking to operate a flight to that airport to deliver luggage for its passengers.
In addition, Surinam Airways has expressed interest.
Mekdeci said while no concrete decision had been made by the two airlines, he was optimistic that more carriers were likely to seek meetings with OAI about operating out of the airport.
As demand increases, OAI will look at further expanding its runway, to accommodate additional flights and carriers.
According to Mekdeci, the airport can expand its 4000-foot runway to a maximum of 5500 feet.
On November 5, 2001, OAI, comprising a group of aviation pioneers, entered into a 25- year lease agreement with the government for the management, operation, and development of the airport. This lease agreement is renewable for two more 25-year periods.
OAI assumed management of the airport on December 1, 2001. It was given the mandate to develop the airport to comply with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
This involved a private investment by the shareholders of some US$ 3 million.
The airport gained international status in 2009 after completion of its phase one development. International scheduled passenger flights then commenced.
In the same year, government and OAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the funding of the second phase of development, with funding from a 2007 European Union grant of 1.5 million euros.
In May, OAI was declared a regional hub and presented with a runway Class Two C certificate by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority.
The airport, which is closer to Georgetown than the main Cheddi Jagan International Airport, gives LIAT a competitive advantage, in terms of reduced flying time and an annual fuel reduction.
The OAI currently accommodates aircraft like the Turbo Prop, Dash 8s and ATRs, as well as executive-class aircraft.
