Vanterpool Warns Against Major Anegada Airport
Former Communications and Works Minister Mark Vanterpool has cautioned against transforming Anegada into the territory's primary international aviation hub, citing overdevelopment concerns. Instead, he maintains that expanding the Beef Island runway remains the best path forward for the British Virgin Islands.
Former Communications and Works Minister Mark Vanterpool has voiced strong reservations regarding proposals to construct a major international airport on Anegada, warning that such a project could trigger severe overdevelopment and create logistical bottlenecks for travellers. Speaking on the radio programme Talking Points, Vanterpool addressed a suggestion from a listener regarding whether Anegada could host an 8,000-foot runway to serve as the main gateway to the territory, drawing comparisons to Grand Cayman.
While stating that he remains open to fresh ideas and supports modest upgrades to Anegada's existing aviation infrastructure, Vanterpool questioned the practicality of transferring high volumes of arriving passengers onward to Tortola and other sister islands by sea or regional air shuttles.
Beyond logistical hurdles, Vanterpool emphasized the vital need to protect Anegada's delicate environment and unique character from runaway commercial development. He noted that the British Virgin Islands must actively preserve its smaller, more tranquil islands rather than subjecting them to large-scale infrastructure projects that could alter their identity.
Anegada currently receives international flights at the Captain Auguste George International Airport, with direct connections to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands. These services, operated by local charter carriers Fly BVI and Island Birds, were established to bolster local commerce and provide convenient access for visitors without overwhelming the island.
Rather than shifting the territory's primary aviation focus to Anegada, Vanterpool reaffirmed his support for expanding the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island. He noted that modern proposals envision extending the runway beyond 7,000 feet, recommending that work begin on an eastern extension to accommodate larger commercial aircraft, improve safety margins, and stimulate broader hotel development throughout the territory.
Primary source: BVI News