By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News|
A $920 million government investment is set to significantly improve air connectivity and access to essential services in Guyana’s hinterland, following the commissioning of the rehabilitated Aishalton Airstrip.
Delivering the feature address at the commissioning ceremony, President Irfaan Ali said the project forms part of a broader strategy to transform hinterland communities and strengthen their contribution to national and regional food security. He emphasized that the government’s approach to development is rooted in serving citizens and ensuring equitable access to opportunities.
According to the President, the upgraded airstrip addresses long-standing challenges caused by weather-related disruptions that previously affected medical evacuations, food supply deliveries, and scheduled flights. He noted that improved reliability will have immediate benefits for healthcare access, commerce, and daily life in the community.
President Ali also reiterated his call for airline operators to reduce fares to hinterland destinations, stressing that communities must directly benefit from public investment. He announced that, effective February 1, Jags Aviation will reduce fares to Aishalton and Paramakatoi, becoming the first operator to respond to the government’s appeal.
Looking ahead, the Head of State reaffirmed plans to construct at least 35 additional airstrips across hinterland communities, alongside a new modern airport in Lethem. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to better integrate Regions Eight and Nine into the national transportation network and reduce geographic barriers to development.
The rehabilitated Aishalton Airstrip features a reinforced concrete surface, a 2,500-foot runway and a 50-foot width, and a 200-foot by 50-foot apron to accommodate aircraft operations. Officials say the upgraded specifications will support safer, more reliable air travel and increased traffic to and from the hinterland.
President Ali concluded that the project underscores the government’s commitment to nationally inclusive development, declaring that geography should no longer determine who advances and who is left behind.
