Citing a number of concerning incidents that took place at various Hinterland airstrips, the Aviation Operators Association of Guyana (AOAG) is appealing to all residents, community leaders, drivers, motorcyclists, farmers, and miners across the hinterland to exercise greater care, awareness, and responsibility in and around the airstrips and runways.

The Association reminded that unlike major international airports, the majority of Guyana’s hinterland runways are short, narrow, and unpaved, explaining that pilots operating into these locations already work with limited safety margins, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

“Every foot of usable runway matters, and every hazard introduced onto a runway increases the risk of a serious accident”, the Association noted.

It said it continues to receive reports of dangerous and irresponsible activities occurring on and around airstrips across the country, including the operation of motor vehicles, motorcycles and bicycles on the airstrips, along with pedestrians crossing runways in front of approaching or departing aircraft.

It complained also that ⁠bottles, debris, and other foreign objects are being left on runway surfaces, and in some cases even large stones and obstacles were placed on the runways, as persons utilize some runways as if they were public roads or shortcuts.

“These actions may appear harmless to some, but they create serious hazards for pilots, passengers, and communities. A single bottle, stone, rut, or unexpected vehicle crossing can cause a loss of aircraft control, a propeller strike, a blown tire, structural damage, or a catastrophic accident”, the Association said.

The public is being reminded that under Guyana’s current Civil Aviation Regulations, interference with aviation operations and unsafe actions on or around aerodromes attracts severe penalties.

The Association said aviation remains the lifeline of Guyana’s hinterland communities, and for many communities, the airstrip is the only reliable connection to the rest of the country.

“Runway safety is not solely the responsibility of pilots, operators, or regulators. It is a shared national responsibility. Every citizen has a role to play in ensuring that aircraft can operate safely and reliably throughout our country”, the Association said.

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