THE Aviation Operators Association of Guyana has said that it welcomes Budget 2026’s allocated combined direct investment of in excess of $7B into Guyana’s aviation industry, with $3.2B earmarked for advancing works on the new arrivals terminal at Cheddi Jagan International Airport and $4B for upgrading multiple airstrips in Guyana’s interior.
According to a press release from the association, Guyana’s aviation industry drives the crucial connectivity in a country of diverse geography, facilitating hinterland tourism, mining logistics, business travel, response to medical emergencies, disaster relief, national security, and countrywide delivery of critical cargo including food supplies and equipment.
“In 2025, our Industry made significant investments in the procurement of several new aircraft to elevate the standard of our service and satisfy growing demand. These investments will continue in 2026 and beyond to remain in step with Guyana’s staggering economic growth.
“The refurbishment of approximately 30 interior airstrips and the impending establishment of municipal airports at Lethem and Rose Hall will significantly improve our safety and operating conditions,” the association said.
These allocations and plans, combined with the allocations to tourism will provide opportunities for growth through increased guest numbers and are supported by long term human resource capacity initiatives such as the Hospitality Institute and Guyana’s Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Programme.
Above all, Budget 2026 frames tourism and aviation as important parts of economic diversification beyond oil and gas.
The association welcomed the engagement it experienced prior to Budget 2026, and said it will continue its efforts to support Guyana’s national growth and development.