Boost to tourism and travel: CJIA breaks ground on second terminal

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has officially commenced construction on its second terminal, marking the largest expansion since its original modernisation project.

The development is being executed by BHM, part of the United Kingdom’s Mowlem Group, in partnership with the Manchester Airport Group. The project will deliver a 150,000-square-foot arrivals terminal while reconfiguring the existing international facility.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali said, “In 2025, Guyana declared itself ready for the future. Today’s event is not about the airport terminal but the journeys yet to come. There is no shortcut, there is only one route to this: hard work, sacrifice, and relentless commitment from every one of us.”

The design phase is already underway, with construction expected to begin early next year and be completed within 18 months. The $7 billion expansion forms part of the government’s broader infrastructure plan for CJIA, reflecting growing passenger demand. In 2024, the airport processed over 856,000 travellers, a 17 per cent increase from the previous year, with projections showing capacity could reach three million passengers annually by 2030.

“In the midst of all that is happening here at CJIA, we have been negotiating to bring to finality the contract for Terminal Two. President Ali’s vision for the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport is not going to be undermined in any way. As a matter of fact, we want to see accelerated implementation,” Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill said.

The expansion also includes a commercial centre, now 80 per cent complete, new VIP and executive lounges, upgraded baggage handling systems, and additional airline office space.

The project aims to enhance efficiency, reduce wait times, and strengthen Guyana’s position as a growing hub for air travel and tourism.