Ministry orders probe into NMIA malfunctioning runway lights
KINGSTON, Jamaica –Transport and Mining Minister Mike Henry has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the malfunction of lights on the runway of the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston.
According to a release today, Henry said that while he understands acts of God and unforeseen circumstances, “there is just no room for error as Jamaica’s enviable aviation record must not be compromised at any given time”.
Henry also maintained that against a background of the government’s Open Skies Policy, operations at the island’s airports must be flawless.
Meanwhile, chairman of the board of the Airports Authority of Jamaica, William ‘Billy’ Shagoury and chairman of the board of NMIA, Neil Seaton have been asked to provide a report in the “shortest possible time”.
Henry added that given increased activity in the Jamaican ports and airspace, every precaution must be taken to ensure smooth operations at our airports and the absolute safety of passengers and employees.
On Wednesday, the lights on the runway at the NMIA malfunctioned forcing flight delays, cancellations and rescheduling. Several passengers were inconvenienced.