$221M Anna Regina Airstrip boosts Essequibo Coast air access, connectivity
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Friday commissioned the upgraded Anna Regina Airstrip, located in Mainstay/Whyaka, Region Two, marking a $221 million investment to strengthen air connectivity, supporting tourism development, and improving access for residents and businesses along the Essequibo Coast.
For residents along the Essequibo Coast, a long-awaited boost in travel convenience is now a reality, as the upgraded Anna Regina Airstrip has been officially commissioned, bringing faster and more reliable access between Region Two and Georgetown.
Former Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, Joel Fredeicks, said the airstrip carries historical importance for the community.
He noted that it was originally constructed in 1959 through community manpower and has now been revitalised after years of advocacy.
He said the upgraded facility is expected to stimulate business activity and strengthen the village’s growing tourism sector.
“I pursued every government to let us rebuild this airstrip and today it is happening. I am seeing possibilities of development and business coming into the village,” Fredeicks said.
Toshao of Caopey Village, Wendy Francis, said the airstrip will bring significant benefits to neighbouring communities by improving travel convenience and reducing reliance on river transport.
She said it provides a faster and more efficient option for travel to Georgetown for work, education, and other services.
“This airstrip here at Mainstay would benefit the neighbouring villages tremendously and you just have to book a flight instead of travelling by boat,” Francis said.
Additionally, Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, Marsha Williams, said the upgraded airstrip will play an important role in boosting tourism and supporting key economic sectors such as agriculture and hospitality.
She noted that improved access will benefit facilities including the Lake Mainstay Resort and village-owned accommodations by encouraging more visitors to the region.
“We are grateful for this airstrip because it will boost tourism in our village and make travel hassle free for visitors and residents,” Williams said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, Rayane Dejounge, said the project represents a fulfilled commitment that will significantly improve connectivity for residents.
She said the airstrip provides a practical and efficient alternative to ferry and speedboat travel, reducing travel time and improving access to Georgetown and other destinations.
“This is a promise made and we can see it has been accomplished and it will benefit us tremendously with easier access to Georgetown and other destinations,” Dejounge said.
The upgraded facility features a 2,000-foot by 50-foot runway and is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Region Two and Georgetown.
It offers a faster and more reliable alternative to river transport.
