Following around-the-clock intensive work by the electrical teams at the Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA), we are pleased to update and advise that the runway edge light circuit has now been restored.
The failure was due to an electrical fault which occurred on Tuesday, February 14th. This fault resulted in a NOTAM (notice to airmen) being issued which closed the airport’s runway from 6:30 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. the following morning, and again from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 15th.
As a result, Virgin Atlantic VS77 from Manchester, U.K., was able to land safely at 8:36 p.m.
The Ministry of Tourism and International Transport would like to convey its thanks to the airlines, air traffic controllers, ground handlers, hotels, staff of the Grantley Adams International Airport and the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. for their immeasurable dedication and swift action which circumvented any further disruption.
Last night, I met with some of those impacted at the airport and I extended my gratitude to all passengers, visitors and locals alike, for their patience, understanding and cooperation.
I will be requesting a report from the airport on the circumstances that led to the fault and the necessary actions required to avoid similar interruptions in the future.
Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill