Due to their unique geography, not all of the islands that form part of the territory of the British Virgin Islands fall within the same international airspace
In particular at the Auguste George Airport on Anegada, aircraft may land without having to communicate with air traffic control based at the main TB Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island, Tortola making it a prime destination for those involved in the illegal trafficking of persons, drugs and other contraband. Although legally part of the overseas territory, due to its far-flung position Anegada falls outside of the British Virgin Islands’ controlled airspace therefore aircraft may come and go from the Anegada airport without any regulation from local authorities. Additionally, Anegada has no customs or immigration checkpoints and once persons have entered the territory via this island, they are free to move between islands as domestic travellers.
Premier Andrew Fahie has described the issue as a serious national risk that must be immediately addressed and noted that the irregularity has caused the territory to lose potential income as it deprives the government of the opportunity to collect fees and duties.
The newly appointed board of the British Virgin Islands Airports Authority is considering a recommendation to redefine the territory’s airspace to include all of its main islands.
