USVI Backs Direct Flights To Tortola
United States Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has expressed support for travelers flying directly to the British Virgin Islands rather than transiting through St. Thomas. Governor Bryan noted that direct routes would free up airline seats for USVI-bound visitors while cross-border preclearance discussions continue. The remarks come as the BVI advances its runway expansion project at Beef Island.
United States Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has voiced support for direct tourist travel to the British Virgin Islands, noting that bypassing transit through St. Thomas could provide mutual economic advantages for both territories. Speaking during a recent Government House press briefing, Governor Bryan highlighted that an estimated 20 to 30 percent of air arrivals at Cyril E.
Thomas are travelers whose final destination is the BVI. He explained that having these visitors fly directly to Tortola would free up valuable commercial airline seats for visitors intending to stay and spend money directly within the US Virgin Islands. Governor Bryan noted that air arrivals in St.
Thomas continue to increase, while scheduled commercial flights into Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island have also expanded. He pointed out that facilitating direct transit aligns with regional growth while easing the logistical pressure on St. The Governor also revealed that discussions are underway between officials from both territories regarding softer border arrangements, including the potential introduction of immigration and customs preclearance facilities in Tortola and Red Hook.
Governor Bryan connected these talks to the ongoing dispute over charter yacht fees between the two territories, emphasizing the need for an amicable resolution and fair reciprocity in regulatory costs. These regional developments coincide with active steps by the Virgin Islands Government to upgrade its aviation infrastructure.
Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer recently announced that tenders were received for the West Runway Extension Project at Terrence B. The initial phase of the airport project involves adding 787 feet to the western end of the existing strip, forming part of a broader master plan to achieve a 7,000-foot runway.
Once fully realized, the extended runway is expected to accommodate larger aircraft from major international destinations, significantly reducing the territory's traditional reliance on neighboring transit hubs.
Primary source: VINO