
Belize is looking to become a hub for airlines, with the government announcing major upgrades to the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (P.G.I.A.). According to the Minister of Tourism, Anthony Mahler, the airport is set to undergo a $250-million expansion and modernization project in the coming years.
Speaking at a recent conference, Mahler stated that the upgrades were necessary to attract more flights to Belize from the United States, and eventually from Europe. The project will include the construction of a new road to the airport and the acquisition of additional land from Belize Electricity Limited (B.E.L.) to accommodate the expansion.
While European flights may not be coming to Belize anytime soon, the government is exploring the possibility of overnight packages through major U.S. hubs like Dallas, Miami, and Atlanta. These packages would include overnight stays in those cities and allow for European tourists to arrive in Belize jetlag-free.
Aviation expert Nico Gurwicz noted that these overnight packages could help gauge the appetite from European markets and pave the way for future expansion.
The government’s plans for the P.G.I.A. are part of a larger effort to boost tourism in Belize, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. With its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan cities, and diverse wildlife, Belize is a popular destination for adventure seekers and eco-tourists alike.
The government is hoping that the airport upgrades will make it easier for visitors to reach the country and help jumpstart the tourism industry.















