THE local aviation industry has potential to encourage sustainable economic growth through attracting international investment, establishing robust foreign exchange revenue streams and creating diverse employment opportunities.

This acknowledgement was made by Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Eli Zakour during a tour on Tuesday.

Zakour toured the airport facility and the Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (the Authority) corporate headquarters as part of his strategic initiative to strengthen the nation’s aviation industry, a ministry release stated.

The tour follows Zakour’s meeting with the Civil Aviation’s Management team on Monday, where detailed discussions were held on strengthening the country’s aviation framework and capabilities.

During the visit, Zakour received comprehensive briefings on critical airport facilities including the Airport Operations Command Center, the innovative Piarco Solar Park, Diplomatic and VIP lounges and the International Departure Concourse. The minister also met the Authority’s staff and traffic wardens on duty at the airport, the ministry stated.

Zakour was accompanied by executives of the Authority, including General Manager Hayden Newton.