Last Updated on June 14, 2025, 8:05 AM AST by Anthony Morris
St Kitts and Nevis: The Premier of Nevis and Minister of Tourism, Trade and Consumer Affairs in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), Mark Brantley presented a powerful argument for better regional air traffic and connectivity at the 7th Annual CARIBAVIA Conference, held from June 10 to June 12 in St. Barths.
CARIBAVIA, is a Caribbean Aviation Meetup of airlines, tourism, business, government, and academic representatives in the region. With airlift at the core of its discussions, the conference acts as a platform to go over key regional issues like the integration of aviation authorities, inter island travel, which we aim to make more free, development of aviation careers, and also the use of emerging technologies like AI in tourism and aviation.
Notably, the Premier was a guest speaker on the topic “Inter-Island Relations and Airport Development.” He highlighted the need for better infrastructure in transport as a catalyst for tourism, trade, and investment throughout the Caribbean.
Also accompanying Premier Brantley was Alexis Jeffers, Special Advisor to the Premier on Investment Matters. He also gave a positive presentation on Airport Development where he provided comprehensive plans for the expansion of the Vance W. Amory International Airport.
“This project represents a bold step forward for Nevis to become a more accessible and competitive destination in the region,” noted Jeffers during his address.
Premier Brantley Advances Nevis’ Aviation and Tourism Sector
Furthermore, Premier Brantley took advantage of the forum to highlight the need for dialogue and cooperation within the region, especially in relation to aviation and tourism. “As we continue to build meaningful partnerships, my discussions with stakeholders highlighted the mutual opportunities that exist between Nevis and St. Barths- two destinations rich in culture, luxury, and shared regional vision,” stated the Premier of Nevis.
He added, “Our ongoing plans to expand the Vance W. Amory International Airport remain a central part of our strategy to enhance connectivity and improve the travel experience to and from Nevis. Strengthening air links with St. Barths and other key regional hubs will support our tourism sector, attract new investments, and deepen the economic ties that bind our islands.”
Premier Brantley also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the CARIBAVIA organizers for their efforts in fostering the development of Caribbean aviation and tourism. While in St. Barths, Premier Brantley also held a bilateral meeting with the President of the nation, Xavier Lédée. The two leaders spoke about opportunities to strengthen tourism and trade relations and examined potential collaboration on agriculture among other important areas.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
