Anegada airport closed abruptly

The BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA) announced the closure of the Auguste George Airport in Anegada over the weekend due to what it described as attempts to mitigate adverse impacts on the territory.

The airport was closed abruptly on December 2, with officials describing the closure as a carefully considered operational choice after reports emerged that a fire tender was removed from the airport.

The BVIAA did not share any details about an expected reopening date.

“We want to assure you that various options were thoroughly explored to keep the airport open. However, due to certain operational constraints, this unfortunately could not be achieved,” the BVIAA said in a release.

The closure was met by outraged residents who expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of the required fire tender, which is mandated by the Aviation Safety Inspection (ASI).

Residents suggested the fire tender was sent to Virgin Gorda after the truck on that island became dysfunctional.

“So what is going to happen if someone on Anegada gets sick and needs to fly out?” one resident asked.

However, the BVIAA said special permission had been granted for the operation of medivac flights during the closure. It added that this proactive measure ensures that in the unlikely event of an emergency, immediate and necessary medical assistance can be provided to those in need on the island.

Meanwhile, the Authority noted that it is actively addressing the substantive issues, and said it was committed to ensuring the prompt return of the fire tender to Anegada within the next few days.

“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this temporary closure, and we remain dedicated to working collaboratively to address these challenges and secure the swift reopening of the Anegada Airport,” the BVIAA added.