Cayman Islands Invests $9.8M in Thales ATC Upgrade for Future Growth
Key Points
- 1The Cayman Islands Airports Authority awarded Thales a CI$9.8 million contract to modernize its air traffic control infrastructure.
- 2The upgrade supports the Airports Master Plan 2041, anticipating 25% air traffic growth at Owen Roberts International Airport over the next decade.
- 3New ADS-B tracking and communication systems will enhance flight safety, efficiency, and coordination across Cayman's airspace and the wider Caribbean.
The Cayman Islands Airports Authority (CIAA) has awarded a CI$9.8 million (US$11.8 million) contract to French company Thales for the comprehensive modernization and upgrade of the nation's air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure. This significant investment is a core component of the Airports Master Plan 2041, a long-term strategic initiative designed to enhance aviation capabilities.
The modernization project aims to deliver world-class airport operations, preparing Owen Roberts International Airport for an anticipated 25% growth in air traffic and tourism over the next decade. The new air traffic control and surveillance systems will significantly enhance flight safety, operational efficiency, and coordination within Caymanian airspace, ultimately facilitating smoother traffic flow across the broader Caribbean region. Key upgrades include the introduction of Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B) tracking and advanced communications systems, providing controllers with real-time aircraft visibility and more efficient flight-path management.
CIAA CEO Albert Anderson stated that this is a major step forward for aviation in the Cayman Islands, aligning with the long-term vision to strengthen safety, improve efficiency, and meet evolving global aviation standards as passenger volumes continue to rise. Youzec Kurp, VP of Airspace Mobility Solutions at Thales, emphasized that the selection reflects trust in their expertise and underscores their commitment to delivering innovative, cybersecure, and tailored solutions to elevate the Cayman Islands' air navigation capabilities.
Thales confirmed that the project will equip air traffic controllers with enhanced real-time situational awareness through a network of connected sensors. This capability is crucial for enabling safer and more efficient flight path management, particularly amidst increasingly complex and unpredictable air traffic flows.
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