Hewanorra International Airport set to undergo infrastructure upgrades

Castries, Saint Lucia: The Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) is undertaking some infrastructure upgrades at the Hewanorra International Airport (HIA), which is aimed at improving the flow of arriving and departing passengers within the terminal. 

This upgrade will address existing space constraints and result in a more efficient travel experience while SLASPA awaits the construction of its new terminal.

Moreover, one of the key outcomes of this initiative will be the rebuilding of the immigration process. Noting this, the authority is installing upgraded immigration booths that will increase the capacity and efficiency in the arrival immigration area. 

It is to be noted that this also includes the redirection of queues to ensure a more efficient processing of the passenger as SLASPA’s main objective is to facilitate and improve the customer/passenger experience. 

Interestingly, an automated passenger queue management system will be introduced to complement this change at Hewanorra International Airport.

Additional restrooms are being built in the Customs Baggage Hall for the convenience of passengers. This development is part of SLASPA’s commitment to provide a more conducive environment for passengers against the backdrop of increasing passenger flow within the space.

At the checkpoints and Security screening areas, queue areas are also being expanded for the departing passengers. Additionally, passport control and departure document processes have been separated from the public space. It addresses the security concerns and ensures a smooth journey through the airport.

While expressing enthusiasm for the temporary upgrades, Acting Director of Airports- Kendell Peter stated, “The upgrade demonstrates SLASPA’s partnership with industry stakeholders and airport partners and our ongoing efforts to create an airport experience that will satisfy the expectations of our valued passengers. While we await a new terminal, we understand that it is necessary to improve our current facility, its systems and processes to alleviate the existing challenges within the terminal.”

Additionally, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J Pierre, highlighted working at the airport during his New Year 2024 address. He stated that the construction of the Hewanorra International Airport Terminal Building has been started in a responsible manner.

 “The work is continuing on the Control Tower Building and work on the runway, airfield, and ground lighting system will commence this year”, noted PM Pierre.

Furthermore, SLASPA extended a vote of thanks to the airport community and passengers for their patience as they cooperated with the ongoing reparations.