Major Airport Runway Expansion Slated for 2026
The Government of the Virgin Islands has officially approved a 7,000-foot runway expansion at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, with construction slated to start in 2026. Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley confirmed the timeline during his Budget Address, noting that the project will enable direct flights from major regions and boost the local economy. An Environmental Impact Assessment is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025 ahead of procurement in early 2026.
Construction on the long-anticipated runway extension at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island is scheduled to commence in 2026, following formal approval by the Cabinet of the Virgin Islands. Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley announced the milestone during his Budget Address at the Twelfth Sitting of the Second Session of the Fifth House of Assembly.
Outlining his administration's capital priorities, the Premier highlighted that the airport expansion represents a vital step in advancing the territory's transportation infrastructure to support long-term economic resilience. The Cabinet's decision to proceed with a 7,000-foot runway extension follows recommendations from a comprehensive business case submitted by global professional services firm KPMG.
Once completed, the extended runway will accommodate larger commercial aircraft, enabling direct flights between the British Virgin Islands and key international markets. Minister for Communications and Works Kye M. Rymer previously indicated Cabinet endorsement of the strategic initiative in late October.
Officials anticipate that establishing direct long-haul routes will eliminate major travel bottlenecks, bolster the tourism and hospitality sectors, attract foreign investment, and generate substantial employment across the territory. Preparatory activities are actively moving forward ahead of the 2026 construction timeline.
The government is slated to complete an Environmental Impact Assessment by the end of 2025, alongside the submission of an updated Airport Master Plan for formal review. A partner selection process will begin through an initial Expression of Interest to identify qualified international contractors, followed by the issuance of a formal Request for Proposals in the first quarter of 2026.
Primary source: VINO