August 25, 2024 – St James, Jamaica: Ongoing repairs on a section of the runway at Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay have resulted in significant restrictions on aircraft operations, creating notable disruptions.
In a public update released by MBJ Airports Limited, the operator of SIA, it was conveyed that the repair work is specifically taking place near Taxiway Delta. Consequently, there have been temporary adjustments to how flights can land and take off at the airport.
Operational Adjustments:
- Landing and Takeoff: To manage the situation, aircraft are currently permitted to land using Runway 25 and must exit at Taxiway Charlie. This specific routing has led to changes in the typical flight operation patterns.
Temporary Closures and Flight Diversions:
- Earlier within the same day, SIA’s runway was temporarily closed, leading to a situation where inbound flights were redirected to Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston. Although the runway was reopened later for arrivals, full operational capacity has yet to be restored.
Communication and Apologies:
- MBJ Airports Limited has used its social media platforms to keep the public and stakeholders informed. An apology was issued for any inconvenience caused by the necessary repairs and the consequent operational disruptions.
Ongoing Uncertainty:
- There is currently no definitive timeline for when the runway will resume full access. The MBJ team continues to work diligently to resolve the issues as swiftly and safely as possible.
In the past, Sangster International Airport has managed similar situations with efficiency, ensuring minimal disruption to air travel and cargo operations. Stakeholders, including passengers and airline operators, are advised to stay updated through official MBJ communications for further updates.
Historical Context:
In the attached photo, a Copa Airlines flight from Panama City is pictured taxiing under a ceremonial water arch at SIA, symbolizing the airport’s capacity to handle international flights and celebrate milestones. This historical image serves as a reminder of the airport’s pivotal role in Jamaican air travel and its ongoing commitment to safety and service, even amid repair and maintenance activities.
Contact Information:
For further updates and more detailed information, passengers and stakeholders can visit the official MBJ Airports Limited social media pages or directly contact their customer service departments.
