Incredible new £340m airport in beautiful country set to boost tourism

Plans are underway to build a new international airport in a beautiful region of a stunning and popular Caribbean island. This project is set to take place in Negril, one of Jamaica's top tourist destinations on the island's western coast. The government aims for this major infrastructure development to boost the country's tourism sector and make travel more convenient. Prime Minister Andrew Holness unveiled the project in 2024 as part of a wider effort to enhance Jamaica's transport network and economic growth.

In addition to the Negril airport, there are also plans to expand Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, which currently handles a large share of the island's international arrivals. Transport Minister Daryl Vaz said consultants are developing a master plan to upgrade the existing Negril Aerodrome for international flights.

The new airport aims to reduce pressure on Montego Bay's airport and offer visitors a more direct route to Negril, cutting down journey times across the island.

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), Audley Deidrick, said: "This is to alleviate the challenges that tourists flying into Montego Bay face getting into Negril, a long journey which, at times, can become longer depending on traffic and road conditions.

He added: "In addition to catering to tourism traffic for the Negril facilities and properties, we posit that an airport in that part of Jamaica will also open up the western part of Jamaica to various forms of further economic development."

Negril has incredible beaches and shallow bays of turquoise-coloured waters where the sunsets are like nowhere else in the world.

Seven Mile Beach, true to its name, stretches for seven miles of white sand lined with palm trees, bars, and restaurants. With its bright blue waters, it's also a popular stop for day tours from Montego Bay.

Just off the coast of Negril and minutes from Seven Mile Beach, you can discover Booby Cay Island, a small islet popular for snorkeling, fresh seafood, its clear waters and gets its name from the booby birds that once nested there.

Not only is the area home to some of the Caribbean's most breathtaking beaches, it also features natural wonders like YS Falls, a spectacular seven-tiered waterfall that cascades into serene, swimmable pools.

Surrounded by lush rainforest, the site also includes a natural spring-fed pool.