CJIA looking to tap into cutting-edge SITA technology to introduce biometrics

– as CEO advances airport’s modernisation plans

As Guyana moves to modernise its port facilities, Ramesh Ghir, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), recently met with executives from SITA (Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques) to advance CJIA’s ambitious technology roadmap. The meeting was attended by SITA Americas President Shwan Gregor, Vice President (VP) for Latin America and the Caribbean George Miley, and other senior executives. SITA is a global leader in air transport communications and information technology.

The primary focus of the discussions was the CJIA’s plan to integrate biometrics and leverage SITA’s cutting-edge technology to significantly enhance service quality and reduce processing times for passengers. CEO Ghir emphasised that this initiative is central to President Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision of transforming CJIA into a modern, efficient, and technologically advanced gateway that embraces digital solutions to enhance the overall passenger experience. During the meeting, CEO Ghir outlined several key technology deployments required to meet this vision. These include Self-Check-In Kiosks with SITA specifically tasked with working closely with airlines operating at CJIA to ensure seamless provisioning and availability for passengers to utilise the self-check-in kiosks currently in the airport terminal.

Off-Airport Services was another area discussed. The CEO also outlined his forward-thinking vision for deploying Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) and Self-Check & Baggage Tag Printing at major international hotels across Guyana, offering passengers the convenience of starting their airport procedures before they arrive. Additionally, Ghir also highlighted Reduced Processing Times as another priority. To further streamline the departure process, he requested SITA to cater for Curb Side Check-in and Self Bag Drop services, which are critical steps in reducing processing times for departing passengers. SITA’s executives affirmed their strong commitment to the region, assuring CEO Ghir that Guyana is considered a critical market for the company. They pledged to deploy their latest technology solutions to meet the high expectations of the travelling public and support CJIA in its transformation into a regional leader in passenger processing and biometrics adoption. The CJIA and SITA teams have committed to working closely together to implement these technological upgrades, marking a major step toward realising a more seamless, efficient and modern travel experience at Guyana’s main international hub. SITA provides technology solutions for airport operations, streamlining travel through baggage management, passenger processing, and identity management using biometrics and mobile technology. These solutions aim to create a safer, easier, and more efficient passenger journey from check-in to arrival, with options like “face is your boarding pass” technology for a touchless experience.

Enhancing services
Only last month, President Ali spoke about the importance of enhancing services at the CJIA, noting that the border control and e-gate system as well as the e-passport issuance system that all went live earlier this year have resulted in improved security at airports and border crossings. He noted that it has also increased accuracy and reliability in the verification of traveller data. These improvements, the President added, align with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. “The e-passport provides the Guyanese citizen with a next-generation travel document full of advanced security features and functionalities to facilitate safer and more efficient international travel,” he said during a press conference on September 15. Meanwhile, digitisation is just one aspect of the CJIA’s modernisation. In fact, the country’s main port of entry is undergoing major infrastructure upgrades including a new administration building, a modern commercial centre and a new Terminal Building. Back in August, the sod was turned for the construction of the modern 150,000 square feet Terminal Two at CJIA. United Kingdom (UK) company, BHM Construction, will build the second terminal beginning next year. It will partner with the Manchester Airport Group to design and construct the facilities. Only recently, British High Commissioner Jane Miller met with CEO Ghir and his technical team as well as a delegation from the UK Mowlem Group to discuss the status and progress of the planned Terminal Two project. Ghir emphasised that the continuous surge in passenger traffic has made the Terminal Two project critical for maintaining efficient airport operations.
The meeting successfully ensured perfect alignment between the CJIA technical team and the Mowlem Group on both the project timeline and technical specifications. During the session, the Mowlem Group provided an update on the technical and logistical aspects of the development. The CJIA CEO further outlined the local coordination efforts being implemented to ensure the project integrates seamlessly with the airport’s long-term strategic goals. The Terminal Two development is anticipated to significantly enhance the overall passenger experience, increase operational efficiency, and successfully position CJIA among the leading aviation hubs in the region. Construction for Terminal Two is expected to begin in early 2026 and will be completed before the end of 2028.