VIports unveils SkyCity as special-purpose company for transformative airport redevelopment project in U.S. Virgin Islands
ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands (September 26, 2024) – VIports Partners, selected by the Virgin Islands Port Authority (“VIPA”) to redevelop the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix and the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas, unveiled SkyCity as the special-purpose company to lead the VIPA Airports Public-Private Partnership (“P3”) Project today.
The SkyCity brand emulates the spirit of the U.S. Virgin Islands, intertwining the theme of air travel with the islands’ vibrant culture. “Sky” represents air travel, while “City” pays homage to each island’s unique identity – Twin City (St. Croix), Rock City (St. Thomas) and Love City (St. John). The bananaquit bird, the national bird of the U.S. Virgin Islands, anchors the brand in the unique natural heritage of the islands, and connotes themes of flight and freedom.
“We are excited to introduce SkyCity as our new brand identity, combining modern themes with local traditions to align with our approach to transforming the islands’ airports into state-of-the-art facilities,” said Steve Nackan, President of Aecon Concessions, a shareholder of SkyCity. “Led by world-class partners, SkyCity looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with VIPA through the ongoing transition phase to deliver tailor-made infrastructure solutions while prioritizing social and community benefits.”
“The project is a comprehensive undertaking and will bring first-rate amenities, private investment, efficient airport operations and long-term maintenance plans to these two important assets – providing travelers with a safe, comfortable, and pleasant experience,” said Christophe Petit, Chief Executive Officer of Tikehau Star Infra, a shareholder of SkyCity. “The SkyCity brand unites our experienced partnership with local communities and travelers alike.”
The enhancements will be tailored to meet the unique needs of each airport, focusing on modernization, improved operations and maintenance efficiency, passenger experience, and sustainability. Passengers will also benefit from improved baggage systems, new jet bridges, renovated and expanded terminal buildings, greater resilience to extreme weather conditions, and new concession areas.
“This landmark infrastructure investment will improve service levels, capacity, traveler experience, and enhance the resiliency of the airports while stimulating economic growth and leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come,” said Carlton Dowe, Executive Director of VIPA. “SkyCity’s vision connects perfectly with our goal to enhance the USVI’s position in the global market as a premier Caribbean destination.”
SkyCity will take over long-term operations, maintenance and commercial functions in addition to its role in redeveloping the two airports following the successful completion of the transition phase, with financial close expected in 2025.
Further information about the project is available on the VIPA Airports P3 Project website vipaairportsp3.com , skycityvi.com and SkyCity’s social media channels.
About the VIPA Airports P3 Project
In March of 2024, the partnership between Aecon, Tikehau Star Infra, J. Benton Construction and Avports was selected by VIPA to redevelop the airports in St. Croix and St. Thomas under a collaborative Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Maintain P3 model to improve the USVI’s airport terminals. Procurement was conducted through a competitive bidding process and the project is currently in a transition phase that involves substantial work between VIPA and SkyCity. SkyCity will take over long-term operations, maintenance and commercial functions in addition to its role in redeveloping the two airports following the successful completion of the transition phase, with financial close expected in 2025.
About SkyCity
SkyCity VI Airports Company (“SkyCity”) is a special-purpose company comprising Aecon as the developer and lead constructor, Tikehau Star Infra as developer, local construction partner J. Benton Construction, and operations and maintenance partner Avports. Together, the SkyCity team will deliver world-class airports through the redevelopments of the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix and the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas by combining global expertise with local partnership. Join our online community on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram @SkyCityAirports.
About the Virgin Islands Port Authority
The Virgin Islands Port Authority (“VIPA”) is an autonomous, self-sustaining government agency established in 1969 as the owner and manager of the United States Virgin Islands’ airports and seaports. VIPA operates 14 seaport facilities, two airports, and surrounding properties. It is a critical arm of the USVI’s economy that facilitates travel and commerce and fosters tourism and economic growth via its port activities. VIPA’s mandate is to develop and maintain the USVI ports to accommodate our users’ current and future demands and to provide safe port facilities. Learn more about VIPA at www.viport.com, and follow us on Facebook or Twitter.
