Emergency Protocols Activated at Island’s International Airports

Emergency protocols have been fully activated at Jamaica’s international airports in preparation for Tropical Storm Melissa, says Minister of Energy, Telecommunications and Transportation, Hon. Daryl Vaz.

“At Sangster International Airport, MBJ Airports Limited has implemented pre-hurricane measures, including drainage and tree clearing, testing of generators with a 36-hour fuel reserve and positioning of emergency supplies. At Norman Manley International Airport, PACKAL (PAC Kingston Airport Limited) has directed stakeholders to secure assets and complete drain cleaning, structural checks and power system tests,” Mr. Vaz outlined.

He provided the update during a special briefing on preparedness for Tropical Storm Melissa at Jamaica House on Thursday (October 23).

Mr. Vaz explained that the airports are likely to be closed within 24 hours of a Hurricane Warning being issued. The island is currently under a Hurricane Watch.

“It is not a must that both of them will be closed at the same time. It is all dependent on the tracking of the storm or the hurricane, and the elements in terms of the locations of the two airports, which are, obviously, on the sea. So, for right now, the airports remain open, and the only time that we will move to close the airports will be if the Meteorological Office issues a Hurricane Warning,” the Minister outlined.

He further noted that, based on current projections, airport closures would likely occur between Friday evening and Saturday.

“Both airports will expedite reopening, once safety is confirmed, with updates shared through official bulletin, social media and coordination with airlines and government partners,” Mr. Vaz assured.