Vance W Amory Airport – Nevis Island
The proposed expansion of the Vance W. Amory International Airport in Nevis carries an estimated total cost exceeding US $47 million, according to details shared during a public consultation held in Gingerland on November 14, 2024. The consultation focused heavily on project financing, construction scope, land acquisition, and long-term operational sustainability.
The figures were presented to the public as part of the Nevis Island Administration’s effort to outline the scale and economic impact of the airport expansion, which is viewed as a critical infrastructure project for the island’s future development.
Construction Costs and Project Scope
Project expert Dan Casal provided a detailed breakdown of the estimated construction costs for the expanded runway operations and hangar facilities. The construction phase alone is projected to cost approximately USD 24,540,475.
This phase includes a wide range of technical and structural works, such as:
- Site clearing, demolition, and material disposal
- Excavation, embankment, profiling, and leveling
- Hydraulic concrete and asphalt works
- Electrical power and communications infrastructure
- Airfield lighting systems
- Construction of a new hangar facility
The embankment process represents the single largest cost component, estimated at USD 7.2 million. The hangar facility itself is projected to cost approximately USD 2.55 million.
Additional Airport Facilities
Beyond the runway and hangar, other essential airport facilities have been factored into the overall project budget. These additional components are estimated to cost USD 12.2 million and include:
- A new fire station
- Fuel farm facilities
- Main road realignment
- Passenger terminal expansion
- Cargo handling facilities
When combined with estimated soft costs of USD 720,800, the total construction and soft cost phase reaches approximately USD 37,461,275.
Land Acquisition Costs
To facilitate the airport’s expansion, the Nevis Island Administration entered negotiations with private property owners whose lands are located near the airport. These discussions resulted in agreed land purchase arrangements.
The estimated cost for land acquisition is USD 10,963,337, bringing the total projected project cost to more than USD 47 million.
Questions on Financing and Funding
During the consultation, questions were raised by members of the public and the opposition regarding how the project would be financed. Opposition Leader and Nevis Reformation Party head Dr. Janice Daniel Hodge sought clarification on funding sources and cost certainty.
In response, Special Advisor to the Premier on Investment, Alexis Jeffers, explained that the project is being executed in stages. He noted that while construction details have been presented, financing arrangements will be disclosed during a later phase.
Jeffers emphasized that the Ministry of Finance will provide full transparency once funding agreements are finalized and confirmed. He also confirmed that property owners impacted by the expansion have already received formal offers and have accepted the terms in writing.
Operational Costs and Revenue Projections
Projected operating and maintenance costs for the airport’s first year were also presented. According to Casal, year-one operating expenses are estimated at USD 4,385,000.
These costs include:
- Airport management and staff salaries
- Operations management and professional services
- Subcontracted services
- Airfield sweeping, parking, and road maintenance
On the revenue side, commercial income from concessions, cargo services, parking, and ground transportation is estimated at USD 303,000. Commercial aeronautical revenue is projected at USD 4,032,339.80, while general aviation revenue is estimated at USD 1,504,960.
Based on these projections, Casal stated that the airport is positioned to repay any loans associated with the project, subject to loan terms and duration. He indicated that net returns are expected to grow steadily over the first five years of operation.
Broader Economic Impact
Premier Mark Brantley informed attendees that he has engaged Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew regarding assistance with funding for the expansion, though no confirmed figures were disclosed. There was also public notice that international investor Patrick Drahi is expected to participate in the project.
Jeffers concluded by describing the airport expansion as more than an infrastructure upgrade. He characterized it as a long-term investment in Nevis’ tourism sector, employment growth, and broader economic development.
The Nevis Island Administration reaffirmed its commitment to completing the project, citing its importance to the island’s competitiveness, connectivity, and future prosperity.