New Airport Opening Q2 2026
Chief Secretary Farley Augustine has announced a definitive target for the full operationalization of the new ANR Robinson International Airport terminal: the second quarter of 2026. Speaking at a Tobago People’s Party (TPP) meeting in Signal Hill ahead of the January 12th elections, Augustine outlined a strategic pivot for the island’s tourism sector, emphasizing that Tobago must break its historical dependence on the United Kingdom and European markets.
Augustine revealed that negotiations are already well underway to secure more direct flights from North America, noting that the majority of the Caribbean’s visitors now originate from that region. He argued that opening a new airport without the necessary flight volume would turn the facility into a « jumbie dancehall, » insisting instead that it must be a « beehive of activity » with frequent landings.
The Chief Secretary also addressed critical infrastructure oversights, specifically criticizing « poor planning » in the original design that reportedly failed to include direct fuel connections for aircraft. To ensure the facility meets all international standards, a specialized committee has been formed in collaboration with the Airports Authority to finalize every operational detail. Augustine stressed the necessity of rigorous certification to avoid setbacks similar to those recently experienced by St. Vincent, where runway issues forced flight cancellations.
A media tour is scheduled to provide transparency regarding the remaining works required to meet FAA and international certification standards.
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