St Helena advances airport repairs as cruise call brings 200 visitors
The St Helena Government has reported progress toward restoring full aviation services following the airport’s recent recategorisation. A government‑chartered flight has delivered spare parts, tools, oil and two specialist engineers to repair the airport’s fire tenders; work is under way with extended shifts, and testing will follow reassembly to return the airport to Category 6. Limited passenger movements were accommodated on the flight, repatriating six people and enabling eight departures under medical and critical‑need prioritisation.
Sea access has also been maintained, with MV Karoline safely docking at Rupert’s to unload cargo after recent heavy swells. Cruise tourism continues, as MV Azamara Journey brought over 200 passengers ashore – a timely boost for local operators – although the vessel could not offer berths to outbound travellers due to full capacity. Authorities say the focus remains on restoring scheduled air services.
Source: St Helena Government