BusinessEnquirer_GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT INC.
GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT INC.: A VISION FOR TOMORROW
With over 70 years of experience in the aviation and culinary sectors, GCG has played a key role in supporting Barbados’ economic and tourism growth. As the country continues strengthening its position as a premier travel destination, ongoing investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and passenger experience remain critical. In close collaboration with Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA), GCG is advancing initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, service quality, and local employment opportunities.
A Strategic Investment for Growth
GCG recently announced an investment exceeding $4 million BBD in advanced ground support equipment (GSE), demonstrating its long-term vision for Barbados. This initiative elevates operational efficiency, workplace safety, and overall service quality at GAIA. As Barbados welcomes increased airlift and rising passenger volumes, GCG’s commitment ensures that the aviation sector remains well-equipped to meet growing demands.
This investment represents GCG’s pledge to support Barbados’ economic resilience. By expanding its workforce and implementing cross-training programs, the company has helped cultivate a new generation of aviation professionals, increasing the number of skilled local workers compared to previous years.
Enhancing the Passenger Experience at GAIA
Strengthening its Airport Dining business line, which focuses on delivering curated culinary experiences in airports, GCG recently introduced URGE, a fast-casual dining concept offering premium burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and crispy tenders. Additionally, the launch of Bistro Market, a fresh, high-quality grab-and-go concept, marks another step in expanding dining options at GAIA, with more offerings to come.
In collaboration with GAIA and key tourism stakeholders, GCG enhances the airport dining experience, ensuring a welcoming and enjoyable journey for all passengers passing through Barbados.
Commitment to Barbados’ Future
The company’s influence extends beyond business; it plays an active role in shaping the future of Barbados’ tourism and aviation landscape. The company has engaged in discussions with the Ministry of Tourism and other key stakeholders to enhance critical aspects of the passenger journey, such as baggage delivery times and airport service improvements. These efforts align with GCG’s overarching purpose: to positively impact people’s lives through excellence, innovation, and personalized service.
“GCG’s commitment to Barbados is unwavering,” said Paulo Teixeira, CEO at GCG “By working closely with GAIA, government leaders, and industry stakeholders, we are strengthening infrastructure, developing local talent, and ensuring an enhanced experience for travelers. Barbados continues to grow as a leading regional hub, and we are proud to support this progress.”
As GCG strengthens its presence across The Caribbean and Latin America, its investment in Barbados highlights a broader commitment to sustainable development, job creation, and industry growth. Beyond providing services, it actively supports local economies and workforce development. Through continued investment and collaboration, GCG remains dedicated to driving long-term value and fostering sustained progress in the regions it serves.
www.gcggroup.com
Elevating Travel & Culinary Experiences
With over 70 years of experience, we deliver world-class solutions across 30 international airports in 21 countries. Our 5,500+ skilled team members specialize in Sky Dining, Airport Dining, Aviation Support, and Culinary Solutions, ensuring top-quality service. Committed to workforce development and economic growth in Barbados, we recently invested $4 million BBD in ground support equipment to enhance efficiency and the passenger experience. We’re also redefining airport dining with URGE, our innovative fast-casual concept at GAIA.
GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT INC.
A VISION FOR TOMORROW
GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Hadley Bourne, the Chief Executive Officer of Grantley Adams International Airport Inc. (GAIA Inc.), has spent nearly three decades in the aviation sector, building a wealth of experience that has proven invaluable in his current leadership role. For the past five years, he has steered GAIA Inc., one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, through a period of continuous evolution and growth. His extensive career includes senior positions such as CEO of Argyll International Airport, Inc. in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as roles within the Civil Aviation
Department of Barbados. In these positions, he honed his skills as both an air traffic controller and regulator, providing him with a unique blend of operational and strategic insight. This blend has allowed him to balance the day-to-day demands of running an airport while charting a clear path for its future growth and development.
Grantley Adams International Airport Inc., like many airports around the world, has faced numerous challenges in recent years. For decades, it has served as a critical hub for passengers
GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT PROJECT DIRECTED BY: GARY SMITH
GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Hadley Bourne, the Chief Executive Officer of Grantley Adams International Airport Inc.
travelling to and from Barbados, as well as a key cargo transit point for the Eastern Caribbean. The airport has seen steady growth since the early 2000s, but the scale of expansion required to meet the demands of a growing market has always been a delicate balancing act.
There have been no major expansion projects in recent years, but now, the airport is entering a new phase of development that promises to reshape its operations and infrastructure. As Bourne and his team prepare for this next phase, he is conscious of the need to ensure that growth does not come at the expense of efficiency. “The key is in planning and mitigating where necessary based on your requirements and scheduling,” he explains. “Communication and coordination with various stakeholders is critical, as is keeping passengers informed so they can manage expectations.”
The expansion of an airport is never a simple task. Airports are living ecosystems that require constant coordination across multiple facets of operations. From air traffic control to security, baggage handling, and passenger services, there is a delicate interplay of systems and processes that need to be integrated seamlessly to ensure smooth operations. This complexity is further compounded when it comes to expansion, as any construction or upgrade work can disrupt the flow of passengers and cargo.
However, Bourne’s approach to managing these challenges has proven effective. By focusing on careful planning, he and his team have been able to move forward with infrastructure projects while minimising disruptions to the daily flow of airport activity.
In the forthcoming financial year, GAIA Inc. will be embarking on a major infrastructure and development program geared towards the modernisation and expansion of the airport, which had previously struggled to keep pace with growing demand. Bourne highlights a key milestone in the airport’s development when the runway project was completed
The SRI Group LLC is a US Service
The SRI Group LLC is a US Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business that specializes in various aspects of security ranging from transportation security to border, immigration and physical security. We also provide solutions for intelligence issues as well as crisis incident management.
Our personnel have decades of experience ranging from regulatory to law enforcement to military and intelligence. We also focus and provide solutions for security technologies and strategies.
One of our main focuses is on aviation security and we have extensive security experience globally and have assisted multiple airports, airlines and governments providing solutions for simple to complex issues and problem
GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
The Sol Group
The Sol Group, a proud member of the Parkland family, is the leading supplier of energy solutions across 23 territories in the Caribbean, as well as Central and South America.
We serve a diverse range of commercial customers including those in aviation, trucking and fleet operations, as well as families and individuals who depend on a reliable partner to fuel their vehicles, homes and everyday lives.
At Sol, we are proud to be the trusted partner of choice for safe, reliable and timely fuel supply for travel across air and land.
Our strategically positioned hubs throughout the region ensure seamless access to premium aviation fuels: Jet A-1 and Avgas. Through partnerships with airports across our network,
we play a vital role in connecting the Caribbean by air, supporting both general and commercial aviation. Our dedication to international safety standards and operational excellence ensures efficiency and reliability for all aviation customers.
For on-the-ground travelers, Sol provides highquality fuels at conveniently located service stations, making refueling easy and accessible. Our well-stocked convenience stores offer a wide range of snacks and essentials, enhancing the travel experience for customers on the go.
Choose Sol as your reliable travel partnerensuring safety, quality, and efficiency at every step of your journey.
Visit solpetroleum.com to learn more.
Caribbean
International Airways Ltd.: A Legacy of Excellence and Service
Founded on September 1, 1970, Caribbean International Airways Ltd. (CIAL) was established to elevate the Barbados tourist industry and provide affordable travel for Barbadians living in the United Kingdom. With its first flight in December 1970, connecting Barbados to London and Luxembourg, the airline quickly became an essential link between the Caribbean and Europe.
By 1987, as its initial objectives were met and government funding for losses ceased, CIAL shifted its focus. It transitioned from airline operations to provide other vital services at the
Grantley Adams International Airport. Among its new ventures, CIAL managed the establishment of Club Caribbean Lounge and the In-Bound Duty Free Shop, which later became The Arrivals Duty Free Shop. Subsequently, CIAL entered into a Joint venture Partnership with Arienta Duty Free Group of Ireland, disposed of the In-Bound Duty Free Shop and partnered in forming a new entity called Caribbean Ari, trading under the Runway Brand at Grantley Adams International Airport, featuring a number of Duty Free Shops in the Outbound Terminal.
Caribbean International Airways Limited
Meet & Greet Team
For over 30 years, the CIAL Meet & Greet service has been dedicated to providing top-tier VIP airport assistance, ensuring a seamless travel experience for their valued clients.
Whether you're arriving or departing from Barbados, CIAL Meet & Greet is there to help you skip the hassle and make the most of your time on the island, allowing you to experience the warmth and charm of Barbados without waiting in long lines.
Professional Assistance Upon Arrivals And Departures
Arrivals - Inside the arrivals hall, the CIAL team greets clients with a personalized meetand-greet service. Depratures - A CIAL agent meets clients curbside at the airport.
Efficient Check-In and Airport Lounge Access
CIAL agents assist clients with prompt check-in and ensure access to the Airport lounge, if it is included in the service. This provides the comfort and convenience of a VIP experience.
Round The Clock Reliability
CIAL ensures proactive monitoring of flight schedules and offers assistance with rebooking canceled flights, ensuring peace of mind throughout your travel experience.
Whether it's a personalized name sign or tailored travel services, CIAL meets every client's unique needs to guarantee the highest level of satisfaction.
AVIATION GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
in 2021, having been initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The investment in the runway repositioned the airport’s capability to handle Code F and increased traffic volumes, which has been crucial as the region has seen a rebound in travel post-pandemic. Alongside the runway revitalisation, other improvements have been made to modernise the airport’s commercial activities, positioning GAIA Inc. for the future.
The government of Barbados, as the primary shareholder in the airport, has continued to support the expansion efforts. This strategic approach has been vital in ensuring that the airport can keep up with both current and future demand. Looking ahead, the focus remains on expanding the airport’s capacity while also enhancing the passenger experience.
GAIA Inc.’s plans for development in the coming years will see further upgrades to both the terminal and cargo facilities, with work already underway on finalising designs with contractors and architects. According to Bourne, the airport is preparing for a rapid construction phase towards the end of the year, which will involve a flurry of activity aimed at preparing the airport for the demands of the next decade.
While expanding the airport’s infrastructure is a priority, Bourne’s team is also focused on improving the overall passenger experience. A major part of this effort involves easing congestion during peak travel times. During certain periods of the day, particularly between 1 pm and 4 pm, GAIA Inc. can become overwhelmed with passenger traffic, with up to 90 percent of the day’s total passengers passing through during these hours. To address this issue, the airport has taken several measures to reduce pressure on its terminals, including the opening of the Concorde facility, a new annex terminal for charter flights. By moving up to 1,500 passengers from the main terminal during peak times, the Concorde facility has helped alleviate the congestion that has long been a challenge for GAIA Inc.
In addition to this, the airport is placing greater emphasis on the expansion of its cargo capabilities. Barbados’ location in the Eastern Caribbean makes it a critical point of transit for cargo, particularly for goods moving between Africa, Central America, South America, and other Caribbean islands. With the growing demand for air freight, modernising the airport’s cargo infrastructure is an essential part of the airport’s long-term development strategy. This is especially important as GAIA Inc. seeks to accommodate increasing demand for goods being shipped to and from the region, as well as to expand its reach to other international markets. While infrastructure improvements remain a critical focus, Bourne is also mindful of GAIA Inc.’s broader role in regional economic development. As the major airport in Barbados, GAIA Inc. is often the first point of contact for visitors to the island. It serves as an entry point for passengers travelling to and from the smaller Caribbean islands, such as St. Lucia, Grenada, and St. Vincent, who often rely on Barbados as a hub for international travel. With other regional airports also expanding their capacity, it is important for GAIA Inc. to maintain its competitive edge. However, Bourne is quick to point out that it is not merely about competing with other airports. “It’s not how we become competitive, it’s how the country remains competitive,” he says. “People don’t come to Barbados because of the airport. They come for the experience the country offers. The airport is just a vessel for that experience.”
With this philosophy in mind, GAIA Inc. works closely with the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) to ensure that the island’s image as a premier tourist destination remains strong. In recent years, the U.S. has emerged as a major source of visitors, making up a significant proportion of passenger traffic. This shift in the tourism market, combined with the return of regional airlift after the COVID-19 pandemic, has been a major driver of growth for the airport. The increasing availability of direct flights to destinations such as Panama, Suriname,
Steinbok Management Services Inc. offers a personalized approach to construction project management, ensuring each client receives tailored solutions that align with their unique vision. While our primary area of expertise is luxury residential, we have successfully managed a diverse range of top-tier projects, including supermarkets, healthcare facilities, and commercial retail spaces Regardless of scope or complexity, we uphold the highest standards of quality and precision.
Founded in 2014 by Mr Joseph Steinbok, our Managing Director, the company was built on a commitment to excellence in construction project management. With over 30 years of hands-on experience in the construction industry, Mr. Steinbok and his team bring extensive expertise in building procedures, regulatory compliance, contractor coordination, and quality control. This depth of knowledge allows us to anticipate potential challenges and implement proactive solutions that keep projects on schedule, within budget, and in line with the highest industry standards.
Our client-centric philosophy emphasizes transparency, collaboration, and meticulous oversight. We take a hands-on approach, remaining fully engaged throughout the process to address concerns swiftly, minimize disruptions, and ensure seamless execution.
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GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
and Venezuela has also helped to expand GAIA Inc.’s network, ensuring that the airport remains a key player in regional and international aviation.
As GAIA Inc. continues to grow, it must also contend with the increasing global emphasis on sustainability. The aviation industry, known for its high carbon emissions, is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact. Bourne is committed to ensuring that GAIA Inc. remains at the forefront of sustainable practices in the airport sector. The airport has already rolled out several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and improve its overall environmental sustainability. For example, as part of the runway revitalisation project, all runway lighting has been converted to energyefficient LED lights. In addition, the airport is upgrading its waste incineration system to meet modern environmental standards and is also modernising its wastewater treatment facilities to ensure that it complies with the highest environmental standards.
Rainwater harvesting has also been
introduced as part of GAIA Inc.’s sustainability plan. As a small island nation, Barbados is highly sensitive to water scarcity, making it essential for the airport to reduce its reliance on traditional water sources. By harvesting rainwater, GAIA Inc. can reduce its environmental impact while ensuring that it meets the needs of its operations. These efforts align with the broader priorities of the Barbadian government, which has made climate action a central focus of its international policy. Bourne notes that, despite being a small island nation, Barbados is one of the countries most affected by climate change. “We’re a small island development state, but we’re the ones most affected by climate change,” he explains. “It’s important for us to take responsibility, even though we don’t contribute significantly to global emissions. The effects of climate change hit us hardest, so we have to lead by example.”
Looking to the future, Bourne’s vision for GAIA Inc. is one of continued modernisation and improved passenger
experience. As part of the airport’s development plan, significant upgrades are planned for its screening and baggage handling systems, which will enhance both security and operational efficiency. New technologies such as AIdriven facial recognition and electronic gates will also be introduced to streamline passenger processing and reduce waiting times. These upgrades are not only designed to meet current industry standards, but also to future-proof the airport for the next 10 to 15 years, ensuring
that it remains a competitive and efficient hub in the global aviation network.
Bourne’s leadership has been integral in driving these developments forward, but he is quick to credit the team that supports him. “It takes a village,” he says, acknowledging the collaborative nature of the airport’s expansion. The airport has partnered with Jacobs International, a global leader in infrastructure development, to help execute its
GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
expansion plans. Local contractors also play a vital role in the execution of these plans, providing crucial project management services to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
As GAIA Inc. prepares for its next phase of growth, Bourne remains optimistic about the future. The combination of strategic investment, sustainability initiatives, and technological advancements will ensure that the airport remains a key player in regional and international
aviation. For Bourne, the focus remains on delivering an exceptional experience for passengers while keeping pace with the ever-changing demands of the aviation industry. The airport may be just a building, but for Barbados, it is a gateway to the world—and with a clear vision for the future, that gateway will continue to grow, adapt, and thrive for years to come.
