Tourism Minister Commends MBJ Airports for Key Role in Hurricane Melissa Recovery

Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has commended MBJ Airports Limited, operator of the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St. James, for the integral role it is playing in Jamaica’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa.

Mr. Bartlett, accompanied by representatives from relevant agencies and key tourism stakeholders, visited the airport on Friday (November 28), where he paid tribute to the MBJ staff for what he described as an outstanding job in keeping the facility operational since October 30, two days after the Category Five hurricane made landfall.

“I am happy to be here to witness, first-hand, the seamless operations and to acknowledge the dedication of MBJ and its partners during Jamaica’s time of extraordinary challenge. The Sangster International Airport, as an important gateway… one of our most important gateways, is open and continues to provide first-class service to all our visitors and the people of Jamaica,” the Minister stated.

“This is very important to us as the country looks forward to the start of the winter tourist season. We must also commend the hardworking staff for the great job they have been doing, keeping the airport up and running,” he added.

Mr. Bartlett highlighted the airport’s role in stabilising Jamaica’s tourism supply chain in the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, noting that Friday’s visit “portrayed an airport that has recovered rapidly, with visible improvements in traveller experience and operational readiness.”

“This is an important symbol of resilience and a clear signal that Jamaica is currently welcoming guests with warmth and efficiency,” he added.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MBJ Airports Limited, Shane Munroe, emphasised the collective effort behind the facility’s rapid reopening.

“Our airport was impacted by Hurricane Melissa and sustained some damage. Due to the tireless efforts of Team Sangster employees and our community, we have been open since Thursday, October 30, facilitating relief flights that transported vital supplies across the region and, since Saturday, November 1, for limited commercial flight operations,” he said

“Sangster International Airport remains open for business, and we are happy to advise that we are now accommodating all flights. We continue to work diligently to restore all systems and deliver the highest level of service,” the CEO added.

Mr. Munroe extended heartfelt gratitude to the entire MBJ team, from maintenance crews and operations staff to customer service professionals and administrative personnel.

“Thank you for showing up, going above and beyond, and caring for passengers and each other as family. Your resilience, commitment and compassion are greatly appreciated and have not gone unnoticed. Even when flights stopped, your spirit did not; you kept our airport safe and secure, ensuring a smooth and quick resumption of service. You also kept everyone informed, embodying true teamwork and service,” he said.

Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, who was part of the visiting delegation, praised MBJ Airports Limited for its decisive response and ongoing collaboration with the city in the wake of the hurricane.

“Sangster International Airport is the face of our tourism sector to the world. MBJ’s swift recovery has reinforced Jamaica’s standing as a reliable and welcoming destination. We applaud the leadership, staff and all partners involved in getting us back to full operations quickly,” he stated.

“MBJ’s commitment to Jamaica’s broader tourism recovery is first class. Its solidarity with Jamaica’s people and country during this extraordinary period following the widespread impact of Melissa, speaks volumes,” the Mayor added.

Minister Bartlett said that as Jamaica transitions into the winter tourist season, which begins on December 15, stakeholders remain focused on delivering safe, smooth, and memorable experiences for visitors and locals alike.

He noted that the collaborative effort at Sangster International Airport stands as a testament to Jamaica’s enduring resilience and its dedication to maintaining a premier gateway to the world.