Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer has provided an update on the significant strides made in the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport Expansion Project.

Honourable Rymer in a Statement at the Tenth Sitting of the Second session of the Fifth House of Assembly said the transformative initiative is poised to bolster the Territory’s economic growth and resilience.

Progress Made

Honourable  Rymer noted that in 2024, the BVI Airports Authority selected KPMG as the successful bidder to develop a Full Business Case  following a competitive procurement process aligned with the United Kingdom Treasury’s Green Book guidelines. This he said was to ensure that the project adheres to international standards of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and value for money.

To guide the process, a Steering Committee comprising experts from finance, aviation, the environment, tourism, and planning worked closely with KPMG to ensure the project reflected the unique needs and opportunities of the Virgin Islands.

Minister Rymer said, “Following months of analysis and stakeholder engagement, the Cabinet has approved the Outline Business Case as of October 1, 2025. The decision endorses a 7,000-foot runway extension, identified as the most viable solution for meeting the Territory’s aviation and economic needs.”

The minister said there are several benefits of the 7,000-Foot Runway Extension. These include:

• Accommodating larger, longer-range aircraft for direct international flights from North America, Latin America, and Europe.
• Shortening travel times, enhancing visitor experience, and opening new markets.
• Stimulating tourism growth, attracting more visitors and encouraging investments in hotels, resorts, and marina developments.
• Expanding trade and business opportunities through efficient cargo and logistics movements.
• Creating jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities during construction and operation.
• Strengthening the Territory’s global competitiveness and resilience.

The extension is also expected to provide improvements in safety, fuel efficiency, and operational reliability, ensuring the Virgin Islands remains a trusted and attractive destination for airlines and travelers.

Next Steps and Future Outlook

Minister Rymer announced that the Steering Committee is now developing the framework to engage qualified partners through a transparent Expression of Interest (EOI) process, scheduled to commence soon, which will pave the way for the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP), anticipated in the first quarter of 2026.

The minister said, “The Government of the Virgin Islands emphasises that this project is a strategic investment in the Territory’s future, classified as a developmental initiative rather than a borrowing under the Protocols for Effective Financial Management. The recently reviewed Airport Master Plan will guide the sustainable and efficient expansion of the airport’s physical and operational infrastructure.”

Honourable Rymer stated that the project signifies more than infrastructure development and is a bold statement of confidence in the Virgin Islands’ future. 

He added, “It aims to enhance tourism, trade, safety, and overall economic prosperity — positioning the Territory for decades of sustainable growth. The Government remains committed to transparency and best practices, providing ongoing updates as the project advances through its next stages. Together, we are building a resilient, prosperous Virgin Islands, connected to the world and ready to embrace new opportunities for generations to come.”

The Minister’s full statement can be viewed on the Government’s website at Gov.vg.