BIDS for approximately 34 airstrip projects across Guyana are currently under evaluation, as the Government advances plans to develop and upgrade nearly 60 airstrips to strengthen domestic aviation and improve connectivity to remote communities.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, made the disclosure during the Canada–Guyana Business Forum 2026, hosted by the Canada–Guyana Chamber of Commerce at the Atlantic Suites Hotel, Georgetown, on Monday.
The minister said the government was undertaking major investments in aviation infrastructure as part of its broader efforts to modernise the transportation network, expand economic opportunities and improve access to communities across the country.
“We are also building our local aviation capacity by building close to 60 new airstrips across the country,” Indar said.
He explained that the bidding process for approximately 34 projects had closed, with submissions currently being evaluated, while the remaining projects would be put out to tender.
The Minister said the expansion was intended to strengthen connectivity across Guyana and support the development of tourism and other economic activities, particularly in the hinterland.
The latest development follows an announcement by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo in July that engineering assessments had been completed on more than 30 airstrips, paving the way for another phase of upgrades under the Government’s hinterland aviation development programme.
At the time, the Vice President explained that the initiative would see several airstrips upgraded from laterite to concrete surfaces to improve safety, reliability and year-round accessibility.
He identified Mabaruma, Port Kaituma and other hinterland communities among the priority locations being considered, with Regions Seven and Eight also expected to benefit significantly from improved aviation infrastructure.
The Government has allocated $4 billion in Budget 2026 for the continued development and upgrading of hinterland and coastal airstrips.
The allocation provides for the completion of ongoing works at Ekereku Bottom, Jawalla, Kaikan and Matthew’s Ridge, alongside the commencement of works at other locations, including Mahdia, Linden and Mabaruma.
In 2025, approximately $2.5 billion was expended on hinterland airstrip development, including completed works at Aishalton, Kaieteur, Karisparu, Kwakwani and Paramakatoi.
The investments form part of the Government’s efforts to address longstanding transportation challenges faced by hinterland communities, where air travel remains an essential means of accessing healthcare, education, commercial services and emergency assistance.
Improved airstrip infrastructure is also expected to support more reliable passenger and cargo transportation, reduce travel disruptions and create opportunities for tourism operators and businesses operating in remote areas.
During Monday’s forum, Indar also highlighted plans to construct two additional airports, including a Code 3C facility in Berbice and a Code 4E airport in Lethem, as Guyana continues to expand its aviation infrastructure.
He emphasised that strengthening both domestic and international air connectivity was essential to supporting the country’s rapid economic development and unlocking opportunities across its regions.
The minister said the government would continue investing in aviation infrastructure to ensure that transportation capacity keeps pace with Guyana’s expanding economy.
