San Pedro tourism stakeholders oppose new airport near Secret Beach

November 3, 2026
by Belize Hub +

Tourism stakeholders in San Pedro have come out firmly against a proposed new airport near Secret Beach and any bridge connecting Mexico to Ambergris Caye. Their message to the Government of Belize is clear: fix the island’s existing problems first.

The meeting, held on November 2 at the Sunbreeze Hotel, was convened by the Belize Tourism Industry Association’s San Pedro Chapter alongside BTIA National President Efren Perez. It gathered industry feedback on the proposed airport, its potential impacts and whether it is needed now.

Participants called for immediate attention to infrastructure, traffic congestion, garbage management, environmental conservation, housing for residents, health services and safety. Stakeholders say these issues directly shape residents’ quality of life, the visitor experience and the island’s ability to sustain its tourism economy.

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The BTIA pointed to World Bank findings on the risks facing San Pedro and Ambergris Caye, including unplanned development, inadequate municipal services, pollution and coastal erosion, all of which could affect the destination’s appeal to visitors. The association warned that letting these pressures deepen will put tourism’s long term sustainability and the livelihoods it supports at risk.

Andre Perez, Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, attended the meeting. He told stakeholders he supports a phased approach to closing the John Greif II Airstrip in downtown San Pedro and developing a new airport. He also said public consultation must take place on the proposed northside airport and that the community’s concerns will guide his position.

The BTIA says it will continue consultations, consolidate the feedback received and seek meaningful dialogue with the government. The association is calling for a clear response to stakeholders’ concerns and for development decisions based on sound planning and the long term interests of Ambergris Caye’s residents and tourism sector.