The sea breeze of the Caribbean has been blowing on the island of Tobago for nearly thirty years. What the people on the island long for is not elsewhere, but a modern airport that can carry their dreams. Now, as airplanes pierce the sky and water gate fireworks bloom, this dormant tourist destination finally awaits a new gateway to shake hands with the world.

Recently, Caribbean Airlines flights landed smoothly at the new terminal of Tobago International Airport, and the airport welcomed their maiden flight with the highest civil aviation treatment, the Watergate. The new terminal building constructed by China Railway Construction International has officially opened, realizing the airport dream of the people of Trinidad and Tobago for nearly 30 years. On the day of the flight, the Tedo Airport Authority held a celebration ceremony, with several political figures in attendance. The construction team of Tiejian International was invited to participate, and local media reported on site.

The new terminal has officially opened for air traffic

Tobago Island is the second largest island in Trinidad and Tobago, with an area of approximately 300 square kilometers and abundant tourism resources. It receives over one million tourists annually. The original Robinson Airport was built in the 1940s, with outdated facilities and saturated capacity, which hindered the development of the tourism industry. Local residents have been looking forward to a modern airport for nearly 30 years.

The government of Trinidad and Tobago launched an expansion plan in 2010. In 2019, China Railway Construction International won the EPC general contracting project and was responsible for one-stop design, construction, procurement, trial operation, and training. The renovation of the old terminal will be delivered in 2022, and the project will be completed and handed over in March 2025. In July of the same year, it will obtain LEED green building dual certification. On October 13, 2026, the new terminal will open for air, providing international routes to Toronto, Guyana, Suriname, and other destinations. We look forward to a successful landing after 30 years.

Crafted with ingenuity to create a green landmark

The project covers an area of 268000 square meters, including 25800 square meters of terminal building, 80000 square meters of apron and supporting roads, and parking lot. During the renovation period, the airport will not suspend flights, and most processes will be carried out at night. The project team overcame difficulties such as pipeline relocation and operational interference, strictly controlled construction noise and air quality, and ensured the safety and quality of the project. The terminal building has a Z-shaped layout, with a wave shaped roof incorporating local steel drum culture. The building fully utilizes natural light, with 82% of indoor areas requiring no artificial lighting during the day, resulting in an overall energy savings of 17.4%. It has become a demonstration project for green airports in the Caribbean. The boarding bridge and intelligent control system are equipped with domestically produced equipment, and the security check and luggage system have been fully upgraded. Additionally, mother and baby rooms and accessible restrooms have been added to optimize the passenger experience.

Jointly built projects benefit people's livelihoods

The new terminal will generate a large number of aviation operation and commercial service positions, driving the development of industries such as hotels, catering, and agricultural products. The airport can accommodate B777-300ER large passenger planes, with an annual passenger throughput of over 3 million people, strengthening regional connectivity and helping Tobago build an international tourist destination. Keywords: the Belt and Road News, Tobago Airport, Connectivity

The project is an important achievement of the the Belt and Road Initiative in the Caribbean and a milestone of China Trinidad infrastructure cooperation. China Railway Construction International also undertakes livelihood projects such as the Port of Spain General Hospital in the local area, and continues to carry out technical and talent exchanges. The water gate is open, and the route is clear. China Railway Construction International will adhere to the principle of consultation, co construction, and sharing, continuously deepen overseas infrastructure cooperation, and write a new story of mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.Editor/Gong Ziwei