UPGRADES in the aviation sector are set to open Guyana’s hinterland to the global economy, thus providing communities with greater access to services and economic opportunities.
This is according to Member of Parliament Lennox Shuman, who was at the time making his contribution to the 2026 National Budget debate.
During his presentation, Shuman highlighted the importance of aviation as a key driver of economic growth. He noted that the sector contributes $4.1 trillion globally and ranks as the fourth-largest component of any economy.
“When these runways are built, you’ll be able to access a global economy that equates to $4.1 trillion,” Shuman told the House, as he spoke on the transformative potential of the planned upgrades.
According to him, Guyana has witnessed a 532 per cent increase in air traffic between 2020 and 2025, alongside a 266 per cent rise in airlines seeking to operate in the country.
To meet this demand, he stated that the government has committed to upgrading the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, as well as regional hubs in Lethem and Rose Hall.
The plans also include improvements to dozens of hinterland airstrips, including those at Mabaruma, Port Kaituma, Mahdia, Kato, Orealla, Monkey Mountain, Toroparu, and other communities.
These investments, he noted, will benefit tens of thousands of Indigenous people and residents of remote areas, linking them to national and international markets while enhancing access to health care, education, and other essential services.
“Airports are not just infrastructure, they connect communities, support medevac, reduce travel costs, and unlock economic opportunities,” Shuman said.
Meanwhile, he also noted that schools and hospitals are being constructed alongside airport upgrades, ensuring that the hinterland receives both economic and social development.
To this end, he stated that Budget 2026 represents a significant portion of the government’s manifesto promises, with further investments expected over the next five years to continue the country’s transformation.
Against this backdrop, Shuman noted that the aviation projects form part of a long-term strategy to integrate remote regions into the national economy, enhance tourism, and strengthen trade links.
“This is a decisive first step in connecting every region of Guyana to opportunities and services previously out of reach,” Shuman said.
