Business View Caribbean - Dec 2023

47 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 10, ISSUE 8 BVI AIRPORT AUTHORI TY In response, the Authority has launched a global recruitment campaign. “We advertised aggressively worldwide and received an overwhelming response, with interest from as far as Kenya and the Philippines,” Menal recounts. This proactive approach filled the immediate gap and aimed to create a buffer, raising the number of controllers to fifteen. Menal also emphasizes the importance of nurturing local interest in aviation careers. “We plan to introduce aviation careers, including air traffic control, to students in schools,” he says. This initiative aims to make air traffic control a compelling career choice, potentially a stepping stone to broader opportunities in aviation. “We’re engaging in school visits and job fairs to build a sustainable pool of air traffic controllers,” he adds, indicating the positive momentum this initiative is gaining. ENHANCING GUEST EXPERIENCE: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH The British Virgin Islands Airports Authority, under Menal’s leadership, demonstrates a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of the tourism industry and its vital role in enriching the visitor experience. The authority’s efforts in facilitating seamless transitions from airports to local destinations are essential to this endeavor. “The airport is an ecosystem in itself, intricately linked with the tourism industry, which is a well-organized ecosystem guided by the BVI Tourist Board,” Menal explains. This ecosystem approach is evident in the services provided at the airports. “We have three fully functioning fixed base operators (FBOs) at the airport, offering high-end services. They work closely with taxi services and tour operators, ensuring a seamless transition for visitors,” he adds. Menal describes a seamless experience for guests arriving via general aviation, constituting 40% of airport traffic. Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) provide expert handling and coordination with local transport and luxury accommodations like The Moorings. Scheduled air carriers, accounting for 60% of traffic, also play a vital role in tourism, with many passengers being tourists with pre-arranged transportation. The Airports Authority ensures quality control of all services, closely overseen by the BVI Tourist Board. Looking to 2024, Menal anticipates a busier year, focusing on enhancing airport services and visitor experiences to make the BVI Airports Authority self-sustaining and the preferred gateway into the BVI.