Dear editor,

Jamaica has three international airports — Norman Manley, Sangster and Ian Fleming — however the latter is not able to accommodate large passenger/commercial planes, because the runway is inadequate. Of the two which are more used generally, one has been privatised and the other is in the wings to be divested.

My concern with that arrangement is, when both airports are out of the hands of the Jamaican government, how do we as a nation ensure the best for our citizens in air travel? How do we ensure and protect our national security interests, and finally, how is our thrust into the travel industry or new tourist markets secured?

Being fully well aware of our predicament on the economical front, plus the expected 5 in 4 predicted by the Economic Growth Council, should we be giving up such a critical and major asset that in the short term could be a serious money maker?

I’m not convinced that as a country we are unable to properly manage, maintain and make a profit from the Norman Manley International Airport. However, if it becomes absolutely necessary for us to offload it, could we first commit to upgrading the Ian Fleming International Airport, or at least allow Jamaicans to have 50 per cent equity in the shares. Privatisation should be our last option.

Joseph Edwards