Belize's Civil Aviation Department Launches Six-Month Study With Tetra Tech to Improve Air Traffic Efficiency
Why It MattersBelize is testing whether better use of existing routes and facilities, rather than new construction, can absorb projected long-term traffic growth, a template other small aviation markets may watch.
Belize's Department of Civil Aviation has announced a six-month study aimed at handling more flights without immediately building bigger airports or new runways. Aviation and engineering consulting firm Tetra Tech will examine how aircraft move between Belize's airports, where delays occur, and what changes could make better use of existing routes and facilities.
The busy route between Philip Goldson International Airport and San Pedro will receive particular attention. The study will also cover scheduled services to Caye Caulker, Placencia, Dangriga, Corozal and the Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport in Belize City, as well as international connections to the United States, Canada, Mexico and Central America. Director of Civil Aviation Nigel Carter said the exercise is the first of its kind for Belize and will help the country prepare for a possible doubling of air traffic by 2045, based on projections from the International Air Transport Association.
The work begins with a three-day visit that includes meetings with industry participants and stops at selected airports and air traffic control facilities. The team will then assess traffic demand, peak travel periods, delays and the systems used to guide aircraft. The final plan will recommend changes and set out which should be carried out first, giving priority to improvements that require little spending on new infrastructure.
Airlines, airport operators and the Central American Corporation for Air Navigation Services will take part. The department said flights and airport operations will continue as usual while the study is under way.
