Guyana positions itself as South America-Caribbean aviation bridge – Indar

…eyes European, Africa routes

… to host CAPA Airline Leader Summit in Sep 2027

Guyana is no longer on the periphery of regional aviation; we are serving as the primary bridge connecting South America to the Caribbean and global markets.”
Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar made the statement while participating in a panel discussion at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Latin America & Caribbean 2026, being held in Panama City under the theme, “Why Latin America and the Caribbean Matter More Than Ever – The Next Era of Connectivity.”

There, he outlined Guyana’s aggressive aviation expansion strategy, which he said is being driven by the country’s double-digit economic growth. He said Guyana’s rapid infrastructure modernisation is positioning the country to support an expanded network of direct, transatlantic and inter-regional air routes. According to Indar, the ongoing development of Guyana’s aviation and related infrastructure is strengthening the country’s role as a key connectivity hub, linking South America with the Caribbean and opening greater access to international markets, including Europe and Africa. He reported that network carriers grew from four in 2020 to 16 to date, supported by expanded cargo partnerships like Avianca and LATAM Cargo. He also referenced the modernisation of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), which features an extended runway for long-haul widebodies, a new 180,000 sq. ft. Terminal 2, expanded apron capacity and automated biometric processing. Moreover, the construction of regional airports in Berbice (Rose Hall) and Lethem (Brazilian border), alongside upgrades to over 35 hinterland airstrips, was also highlighted as Guyana expands regional and hinterland hubs. Nevertheless, he stated that strategic focus is now placed on securing direct European and African routes backed by balanced year-round demand across corporate, Diaspora and eco-tourism sectors. Indar was joined at the summit in Panama by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation (CJIAC), Ramesh Ghir, who also participated in panel discussions to advance President Ali’s vision for air service development and the overall advancement of the aviation sector.

CAPA Airline Summit 2027
Meanwhile, Guyana was selected to host the CAPA Airline Leader Summit on September 9 and 10, 2027, marking a defining moment in Guyana’s trajectory toward becoming a major regional aviation, commercial, and tourism hub. Following the announcement, Aviation Minister Deodat Indar expressed deep appreciation to the CAPA – Centre for Aviation team for their trust and confidence in selecting Guyana to host the 2027 event.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, I want to sincerely thank the CAPA team for their confidence in awarding Guyana the hosting rights on September 9 and 10, 2027,” Indar noted. He added, “This historic achievement directly aligns with the strategic vision of President Dr Irfaan Ali for Guyana to become their premier aviation partner in this hemisphere. As our economy undergoes unprecedented expansion, modernising our connectivity is essential. We look forward to welcoming airline executives, investors and aviation industry leaders to Guyana to partner with us directly on this growth trajectory.”
The CAPA Airline Leader Summits are recognised globally as premier strategic gatherings for civil aviation decision-makers. The summit in Georgetown is expected to bring together hundreds of senior industry representatives, including delegates from dozens of international airlines, civil aviation regulators, airport developers, and financial institutions.
The conference typically gathers executives from major international and regional carriers to discuss route economics, fleet planning, and market access. In addition, it attracts aircraft manufacturers, leasing firms, air navigation service providers and travel technology innovators. During the conference, discussions will focus on sustainable aviation policy, expanding regional route networks, infrastructure financing and cross-border partnerships. Hosting the event highlights Guyana’s major infrastructure developments, including upgrades at CJIA and strategic initiatives designed to link South America directly with North America, Europe and the Caribbean. The two-day summit will give international delegates a front-row view of Guyana’s rapidly developing infrastructure, energy sector, eco-tourism industry and investment-friendly environment.