Roraima Airways crew lounge was opened yesterday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, East Bank Demerara.
This is part of an ongoing initiative to improve the conditions at the airport, and, according to CJIA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Ramesh Ghir, other improvements are on the cards, including upgrading washroom facilities and remodelling the departure area. He said Roti Hut recently opened up a new facility at the airport and King’s Jewellery is slated to come on board soon.
“We’ve been on a drive to push customer service; and as a result, we’ve seen a ten per cent increase in passenger movement for this year,” Ghir informed the media following a tour of the new facility.
Ghir said the new lounge, constructed at a cost of $20M, was established in an area that was an empty office and that he was “surprised at what they (Roraima Airways) did with the little space that was available.”
Captain Gerald Gouveia, CEO of Roraima Airways, described the new facility as unique.
He said the developing and modernising of airports across the Caribbean prompted his establishing the new lounge here.
He said with the lounge built with sleepers, the crews will be able to get their necessary rest and will be able to enjoy a comfortable and safe environment.
Gouveia, who is also the Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, recalled that in the past, the airport was very under-developed and that there was no place for the private sector as it was dominated by the Government.    Remarkable improvement over the past five years is due to the dynamic and young staff who took over, he said, adding that management of the airport is improving daily.
“This is the face we see when we arrive in Guyana and when we leave. We must take care of the people who come in to our country. We should never lose sight of the issue of customer service,” Gouveia stressed.
Regarding security issues, Gouveia said he is urging the authorities to consult with the local experts before seeking overseas help.
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Komal Ramnath, said the new lounge is just another example of the continued investment of Roraima Airways at the airport.
“The people who transport us now have a place to relax. They would not be tired when they fly us out,” Ramnath said.
Country Manager of Caribbean Airlines, Mr. Carl Stewart, said the lounge is one of the best in the entire Caribbean region and he noted that he appreciated the bold and courageous step by Roraima Airways.