Improvements to Providenciales International Airport
Visitors to the Turks & Caicos Islands will Enjoy Spacious Terminal Buildings and Improved Amenities
Have you ever been watching a movie that seemed absolutely terrific only to be let down by the ending?
Sometimes vacations can be like that too. The beaches were first rate, the food was out of this world, and the accommodation was fantastic. But your time at the airport was confusing, irritating and uncomfortable. Airports are most travelers’ first and last impressions of their holiday destination, and the government of the Turks and Caicos Islands wants to make sure your entire holiday is as stress-free as possible by undertaking an ambitious airport improvement program.
The Providenciales International Airport is undergoing a major renovation. The main terminal redevelopment began in 2013 with the building of a new curved roof. Beams were created from glued laminated timber or glulam, a product choice in favour of environmental concerns. Glulam is made from wood from sustainable forests and the energy used to produce it is significantly less than would be used to make steel of equal strength. Added to the centre of the roof is a new metal building that will enhance the structure’s office space.
When you’re tired from travelling, there’s nothing worse than to step foot into a dingy, dirty washroom where the faucets drip and the toilets fail to flush. The Providenciales airport plan includes renovations to both domestic and international bathroom facilities. Features will include contemporary lighting, floor to ceiling tiling, marble countertops, energy efficient appliances and amenities.
Video of Arriving at Providenciales International Airport
Say hello to impossibly blue waters as you prepare for landing at the Providenciales International Airport, pre-construction.
Airport Improvement: Phases 1 and 2
The first phase of improvements to Providenciales International Airport (PLS) is slated to take 18 months to complete and will include a larger terminal, an expanded passenger check-in area, a larger self-serve check in area, a larger section for retail shops and restaurants, and an enhanced medical facility.
Airport Improvement: Phases 3 and 4
Subsequent phases will address a new traffic circulation system and enhanced car parks, improved arrival hall and departure lounge, an enhanced international check-in area, and security checkpoint area.
The airport project is designed to meet the growing tourism industry in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
As reported by the TCI Sun in an articled titled, “Government breaks ground on $10 million expansion for Providenciales International Airport”, Governor Ric Todd states, “It is the success of TCI in bringing people to these islands. It is a symbol of our desire to keep investing in the things that really matter to everyone here and to our economy.”
The project involves a long list of specifications, deadlines, and budgets. It’s a massive undertaking and is proving to be a very “local” one too. Construction is providing significant employment for islanders. This was a requirement for contractors overseeing the project.
In the same story, Premier Rufus Ewing states, “I want to say to the persons who are awarded the contract to get the job done properly, high quality, quickly, within budget and employ Turks and Caicos Islanders more than 75 percent if you can.”
Video of Departing from Providenciales International Airport
Expect beautifully renovated facilities in 2015 when you depart from PLS.
Improvements to Providenciales Airport is providing jobs for locals. It’s a big boost to the economy. But the larger dream is to provide visitors with the kind of warm welcome and final farewell that ensures the best vacation possible. When you’ve checked your bags and step through the boarding gate, you can look at the Provo airport sign and wholeheartedly say, “This has been a truly memorable holiday from start to finish. I’ll be back!”
