(DDM) — Jamaica’s Transport Minister, Daryl Vaz, has announced that both the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and the Ian Fleming International Airport in St. Mary will reopen today at 4:00 p.m. for relief operations, with commercial flights resuming tomorrow.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the reopening marks a crucial step in Jamaica’s recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck earlier this week as a Category 5 storm, one of the strongest hurricanes ever recorded in the Caribbean.
Minister Vaz confirmed that the airports were cleared for operation after intensive safety inspections and debris removal conducted by aviation and emergency response teams. He added that resuming flight operations would facilitate delivery of essential supplies, humanitarian aid, and medical assistance to affected communities.
“Today’s reopening signals our nation’s resilience and determination to rebuild quickly and efficiently,” Vaz said, noting that the airports will prioritize relief missions before transitioning to regular commercial services.
DDM reports that Jamaica’s infrastructure, power grid, and communication networks were severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa’s 185 mph winds, with Kingston, St. Elizabeth, and St. Mary among the hardest-hit parishes.
Emergency crews have been working around the clock to restore electricity, clear blocked roads, and reopen major transportation routes to enable aid distribution.
International organizations and regional partners, including the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), are coordinating with Jamaican authorities to assess damage and provide immediate assistance.
Minister Vaz urged citizens to remain patient as government agencies work to stabilize essential services and ensure that recovery reaches every affected area.
As relief flights begin to land later today, the reopening of Jamaica’s key airports represents a turning point in the nation’s post-hurricane recovery, bringing hope to thousands of displaced residents and signaling the gradual return of normalcy after the catastrophic storm.