The build-out of the new ANR Robinson International Airport Terminal is proceeding well, according to THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine.
During a tour of the facility on Monday with Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Eli Zakour, Mr Augustine said he was pleased with the work ahead of the new terminal’s opening.
These works consist of concessionary stands, hubs for taxi operators, and branding across various areas within the airport.
“We set aside $10 million to begin that work, not knowing what the final costs will be but understanding that’s a priority as we seek to develop the tourism product.”
Final costs are expected to be determined by Thursday.
Mr Augustine said he was not ready to share the date that officials have in mind for the opening of the new airport terminal. He explained that Cabinet has to first give final approval of the date, and it would be based on the progress of the ongoing work.
“Most of it is cosmetic, but we want to see where those works are, how far, how advanced those are by next week before we decide on announcing a date, and I will want the Minister of Transport to be at my side to make that announcement or for him to make that announcement.”
The Chief Secretary praised Minister Zakour for working closely with the THA, ensuring the new terminal is reflective of Tobago’s desires in serving domestic and international travellers.
“The Minister has been on top of his game, and I know it is coming from directives from the Prime Minister, and I can’t not express gratitude because the Prime Minister’s position, the honourable Prime Minister’s position has been that the terminal is in Tobago and the Tobago House of Assembly should be consulted and should be at the table.”
The new terminal was officially handed over to the Airports Authority in preparation for full operations.