There's a lot of work going on at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, and when it's all done, it is expected to be one of the premier airports in the region.

Right now, construction work is at phase one of a three-phased plan for the expansion of the facility. The first phase started in 2004 and should be completed by March next year, in time to facilitate the influx of visitors for Cricket World Cup. This section of the work will include the construction of a new departure building, a security screening station, upgrading of the roads and car parks and upgrading of electrical infrastructure.

Physically challenged

On Tuesday, Senator Floyd Morris toured the airport and was briefed by engineers on the facilities that will be put in place for the physically challenged.

Among them will be new elevators, escalators and wheelchair ramps. The check-in area will be expanded significantly, moving from 30 to 66 desks. The airport will be on three levels and there will even be a section dedicated to showcasing the artwork of local artists.

The entire programme should be completed by the summer of 2008.