The first Bahamian graduates of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Aerodrome Inspectors Training Programme represent an important step in the development of civil aviation in The Bahamas, according to Minister of Transport and Aviation Glenys Hanna-Martin.

“This is an historic new paradigm for the Department of Civil Aviation,” she told the graduates last week.

“This is exciting. It is about taking it to the next level. The role that aerodrome inspectors play in advancing us as a people is critical. This is a major, major intervention into our economy and the social life of our people.”

According to ministry officials, the graduates underwent intense competency-based three-month aerodrome inspectors training on safety implementation and management systems inclusive of on-the-job training at both the Lynden Pindling International and the new Marsh Harbour, Abaco airports: safety inspections that were carried out on July 22 to 23 and July 29 to 30, respectively, coupled with aerodrome safety inspections. ICAO’s Technical Cooperation Bureau’s Expert/Consultant Dr. Samuel H. Cardoso conducted the training.

Minister Hanna Martin noted that the 28 airports in The Bahamas offer the graduates a challenge to rise to and meet — a chance to shine in the region and internationally.

“Our airports are such a powerful economic engine to our country,” she said.

“They are also a critical necessity to connect our people. The work you will be doing will not be easy and you will be putting pressures on the system, causing positive change and development in the Bahamian airport network. What you do will have a level of independence because we will have to ensure the standards are met. You will soon be dispatched and — this is the minister talking right now — you will set the highest standards.”

She also told them that they must uphold the highest standards of ethics and training.

“You cannot turn a blind eye and you cannot look the other way — it is impossible,” Minister Hanna-Martin said.

“It is impossible because you are dealing with a critical role and it’s sacred and I encourage you to keep to those high standards.”

Minister Hanna Martin added that it is an exciting time in aviation and she believes that The Bahamas will continue to move forward; Bahamians should continue to see the aviation sector as a dynamic career avenue where more and more young people will want to be part of the industry.

“It has incredible potential and we are in the middle of a dynamic revolution in aviation in The Bahamas,” she said.