NATA concerned about congestion at Ogle Airport

– calling for establishment of National Airport Authority

The National Air Transport Association (NATA) of Guyana would like to register its concerns over the effects of serious congestion at the EF Correia International Airport as a result of inequitable development at the Airport and the mixing of international and domestic flights.

The Association, in a press release, noted that there were over 100 domestic flights operating daily which contributed significantly to hinterland and national development, and which were seriously affected by confinement on the runway, apron and taxiways.

Presently, nine aircraft operators have no recourse other than sharing one older winding taxiway to access the runway which leads to much congestion and costly delays, NATA stated.

“This situation has worsened over the years as newer operators came into being and older operators expanded their operations without the enabling infrastructure, such as a new taxiway to the runway which is essential for efficient and safe operations. This unhealthy situation is further compounded by congested airspace. NATA is extremely concerned about the issues of operational safety under the present environment,” the release added.

According to NATA, the body has made representation to Ogle Airport Inc (OAI) on behalf of its members to no avail and, as such, it is urging the Government to accelerate the review process undertaken by focal Minister, David Patterson, for remedies to the “present anti-competitive and inequitable development” of the Airport.

“We are also calling for the urgent establishment of the long overdue National Airport Authority which would ensure a fair, equitable and safe environment for both domestic and international operators,” the statement added.