Prime Minister the Right Hon. Perry G. Christie was in attendance and said that he was ‘elated’ that this high-end facility had been completed for use by Air traffic controllers who had to previously rely on ‘antiquated’ means to assist them with the duties.  

“For too long our Air traffic controls have had to use old technology to carry their duties,” said Mr. Christie. “It is, therefore, with great pride that I am here today to officially open this facility, which represents a positive move for our country, especially as we are able to do so a few days shy of our 42nd anniversary.”  

Minister of Transport and Aviation, Hon.Glenys Hanna-Martin also expressed pride in the new building and said that the timing of the opening was especially significant.  

“I believe we are all very privileged to be gathered here on this auspicious occasion, which is taking place just two days shy of the 42nd anniversary of our national independence,” said Minister Hanna-Martin “It is propitious that the construction of this building has been completed so proximate to the date of this important benchmark in our national life.”  

The new concrete structure houses state-of-the-art equipment and modern technology, which will facilitate and build the capacity of national air navigation services. Nearby resides a modern radar system –  collocated Primary Surveillance S-Band Radar System (PSR) and a Monopulse Secondary Surveillance Radar System (MSSR), mode-S capable and all ancillary equipment, which will be further enhance capacity in air navigation services.  

The new approach control centre will be the operation centre for radar controllers. The centre also includes a radar simulator room with two stations. These simulators will expand the training experience and opportunities for controllers on the new radar and air traffic control systems and the new 3-D tower simulator for controllers in tower control management. It is expected that the introduction of simulator training will significantly reduce training times.  

Ten young Bahamians are now being recruited to undergo training at the facility. Following training, they will join the ranks of the current complement of controllers.  

The completion of the new building marks the completion of a series of components currently in train to modernize and fortify the country’s aviation sector.

  The Government has embarked on a comprehensive overview of airport networks nationwide. As a result, new security equipment has been installed in airports throughout the country and the framework for the redevelopment of terminals and runways at almost 30 airports have been completed.

  Master plans for major Family Island airports with high volumes of traffic --Grand Bahama, Abaco -- have been completed and work is now commencing for the immediate redevelopment of the Moss Town International airport in Exuma.