Guyana to launch premier aviation school
-President Ali announces he made call for cheaper domestic air travel
President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Tuesday announced that Guyana will soon have its own aviation school capable of fully training and certifying local pilots and aviation professionals, a move he says is central to expanding access to air travel and steering the country’s aviation sector to new heights.
Speaking at the launch of the “Next Generation of Aviation Professionals” initiative, the President said major investments are already underway to build out the infrastructure needed for a modern and fully integrated aviation system.
“We are investing in infrastructure that will support our dreams. We are constructing a new terminal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. We’re developing municipal airports at Latam and Rose Hall and Canjie. These will not only serve domestic needs, but will eventually facilitate regional flights, turning these towns into new gateways. We’re upgrading hinterland airstrips. We’re extending runways. We’re ensuring our physical infrastructure has the altitude to match our economic ambitions.”
But President Ali emphasised that expanding runways and terminals is only part of the mission. The development of skilled Guyanese talent, he said, is what will ultimately power the nation’s takeoff.
“Yet, infrastructure without people is not enough. The heart of aviation is human expertise. That is why we are going further. In collaboration with the private sector, we’ll establish a premier aviation sector and school right here in Guyana. The institution will have one mission: to train and certify Guyanese talent across all areas of aviation. From the cockpit to the control tower. From the hangar floor to the boardroom. And yes, this school will have the capability to train and certify our pilots domestically. Our aspiring pilots will earn their wings right here in Guyana.”
With domestic and cargo aviation expected to surge in the years ahead, the President said travel must become easier and more affordable, especially for residents in remote communities who rely on air transport to access essential services and economic opportunities.
“We have placed a significant bet on our aviation future by offering generous incentives to the sector. And I’ve already made a direct call for a reduction in fares because domestic air travel must be made more affordable. It cannot become a luxury. Our vision demands that people can fly in and out of our remote communities without great financial strain. But cheaper and larger cargo planes are reliably coming on stream and coming very quickly. Every Guyanese will have the opportunity to see the breathtaking beauty of our country from land, river and air. True national connectivity means affordable access for all.”
The President assured that government intends to open the skies to every Guyanese, whether as a passenger or part of the growing workforce that keeps the sector operational. The aviation school forms a critical pillar of that plan, giving young people access to high-skill careers and positioning Guyana as a regional leader in training and certification.
