Seven Air Traffic Control Officers of the BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA) are now certified met observers having completed the recently held Aeronautical Meteorology Observer Training Course with a one hundred percent pass rate. Photo: BVIAA

Now equipped with the knowledge and skills, the newly certified met observers will enhance the Air Traffic Services Unit’s efficiency allowing for better resource management while maintaining the highest level of service integrity. Photo: BVIAA

The recently held Aeronautical Meteorology Observer Training Course for seven BVIAA Air Traffic Officers was held in collaboration with the in collaboration with the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) and facilitated by Mr. John Peters of CIMH Photo: Internet Source

According to a press release from the BVIAA on October 7, 2024, the seven Air Traffic Control Officers completed the specialised training programme with a one hundred percent pass rate. It added that the course was to ensure that the BVIAA continues to meet international standards in aviation safety and operational efficiency.

Officers commended

Officer in Charge, Mrs Diana D. Maduro-Romney commended the officers for their commitment to success and said, “Having trained Meteorological (MET) observers on staff is critical for ensuring that we continue to provide safe and efficient air traffic services. This achievement strengthens our operational capacity and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to building a highly skilled team.”

She added that the skills gained by the officers will significantly improve the BVIAA’s capacity to deliver precise and timely meteorological data thus enhancing the overall safety and efficiency of air traffic operations in the Virgin Islands (VI).

BVIAA committed to excellence

Meanwhile, Director of People and Culture, Mrs Dawn U Corea-Leonard said the BVIAA is committed to excellence stating, “We are dedicated to upholding our core values which include education and excellence by ensuring that our staff is trained to the highest international standards”.

The recent training, she added, demonstrates that commitment to providing the team the tools needed to excel in their roles and ultimately benefiting the Territory’s entire aviation sector.

Air Traffic Services Manager Mr Phil DaSilva said now that these officers are equipped with the knowledge and skills, once operational they will enhance the Air Traffic Services Unit’s efficiency “allowing for better resource management while maintaining the highest level of service integrity.”

The comprehensive course was facilitated by Mr John Peters of CIMH, who has 40 years of experience in meteorology and hydrology services. The initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing the operational efficiency of the Air Traffic Services Unit, aligning with the strategic goals and objectives of the BVIAA.  

Meanwhile, Director of Operations, Mr Kyle Cummings, who also congratulated the Officers, highlighted the significance of the relationship between the BVIAA and CIMH. He said the CIMH “has long been a trusted partner in ensuring that our staff receive the highest quality of training. This collaboration is invaluable, not only for the Authority but also for the Territory on a whole.”