The Tribune

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

THE closure of a major runway at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) is causing unusual delays in flight operations, according to Western Air, a leading Bahamian airline.

The Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD), which manages the airport, previously announced that major upgrades began on February 3 and warned travellers to expect delays during peak hours. NAD has reiterated that while efforts are being made to minimise disruptions, extended wait times are inevitable for a project of this scale.

In a statement on Monday, Western Air advised passengers to continue checking in as usual, as most flights remain on schedule. However, delays may occur on certain days and at specific times, depending on traffic volume on LPIA’s single active runway.

The airline explained that with only one runway in use, congestion and extended ground time for takeoffs and landings have led to delays and flight re-accommodations, including for Monday’s Flight 716 and 718. Western Air noted that flights that normally take 35 minutes between Freeport and Nassau are now averaging up to an hour and 30 minutes. In some cases, flights have been diverted due to extended wait times for landing clearance.

The airline also highlighted the strain on flight crews, whose duty hours are strictly regulated for safety. Longer wait times on the ground reduce the number of flights they can legally operate.

NAD said the two-month runway rehabilitation project is a $10m capital investment, expected to be completed before the peak Easter travel period.

The runway, last upgraded in 2006, will undergo a major overhaul, including the replacement of approximately 484,000 square feet of asphalt pavement, extending its lifespan and improving safety and reliability at LPIA.