Over 1,000 visitors arriving daily at CJIA

OVER one thousand passengers arrived on several international flights yesterday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, (CJIA) Timehri, where they were warmly welcomed.
The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, in collaboration with CJIA and several private sector bodies, including Banks DIH limited, Madewini Resort and Beharry Group of Companies, provided an opportunity for passengers to sample the true tradition of the Guyanese Christmas.
Upon disembarking, the planes and entering the arrival terminal at CJIA, passengers were greeted by carol singing and masquerade dancing, and were treated to black cake and some of Guyana’s fine beverages.
Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali, who is holding the responsibility for the tourism sector, was on hand to welcome the passengers.
In an invited comment, Minister Ali told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that Guyana is the only international airport in the Caribbean that welcomes passengers so warmly on special occasions.
“This is a long held tradition of the Guyanese people to share the joys of life…we are known in Guyana for our warm hospitality, the traditional black cake and of course the finest rums,” Minister Ali said.
This welcome tradition, started by former Tourism Minister Manniram Prashad has helped to lift the celebration of festivities in Guyana, Ali said.
“On behalf of myself and the Government of Guyana, we would like to welcome all the passengers arriving in Guyana, whether it is Guyanese or tourists coming here to spend time with their families during the festive season,” Minister Ali said.
For this reason, he said, the Ministry of Tourism has planned a host of events for the festive season, including the Christmas tree light up, the Main Big Lime, and the many other festivities in and out of the city for tourists and Guyanese returning home for the holidays.
Minister Ali, sharing his thoughts on Christmas, said it is not only a time for celebrating achievements accomplished during the year, but also a time of sharing and integrating the family.
Commenting on arrival figures, he said this year’s figure has already surpassed last year’s by more than six percent.
“So the rumours of people not coming to Guyana because of national and regional elections have no merit ... in fact we have more than 1000 passengers arriving every day, that alone speaks of the magnitude of work for the airport staff and Customs,” Minister Ali explained.