Authorities at Ogle Airport seek Govt intervention to remove squatters from restricted flight path area

Public Communications Consultant for the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Kit Nascimento, confirmed on Friday that the airport has formally requested the Government of Guyana – through the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority – to remove squatters. The squatters occupy land along the western side of E Field extending to Main Road, adjacent to the airport’s perimeter.
He reiterated that the squatters pose an imminent threat to the airport and aircraft, as the area lies directly in the flight path.
He also raised concerns about alleged political interference by opposition parties.
“The airport has become aware that opposition political parties have approached these squatters and are encouraging them to remain in place. We consider this to be highly irresponsible, and they should know better,” he said.

“These squatters have built accommodation in an area that is absolutely restricted from any form of housing. When they first settled there, airport authorities informed them that they could not remain and that they had to move – some two years ago. Rather than relocate, they have continued to expand their presence in the area.”
Nascimento emphasised that the squatters must understand the severity of the safety risks, which could affect all aircraft using the airport.
“They need to understand that they are creating a major safety issue for all aircraft using the airport. And we fully support the action being taken by the Government to have them relocated,” he added.
Recently, Housing Minister Collin Croal stated that officials have begun relocating persons from the dam area between the Ogle Airstrip and the Cummins Lodge Housing Scheme.
He emphasised that the Administration will not recognise new squatting and has made it clear that illegal occupation in sensitive zones will not be allowed to continue.
Croal said a small group of squatters, initially estimated at about eight to nine persons, were identified occupying land within the Ogle flight zone, specifically along a dam reserve near existing housing developments.
As Guyana strives to build on key aviation safety gains in the last few years, the Aviation Operators Association of Guyana calls on all citizens to act responsibly around aerodromes and avoid any actions that may affect the safety of others or, indeed, their own personal safety.
The association has also declared that aviation safety requires obstacle clearance and safety zones around airports. Impingement of these areas poses significant threats to the safety of both aircraft and the persons unknowingly putting themselves in grave danger by their proximity to low-flying aircraft in the landing and take-off phases.