By KHRISNA VIRGIL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

IF THE Nassau Airport Development Company makes a decision that does not benefit Bahamians, the government is prepared to intervene on their behalf, Prime Minister Perry Christie said yesterday.

Mr Christie was responding to recent calls from executives in the tour industry who fear a new ground transportation system at the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) could drive up the cost of tourist visits ultimately causing a decrease in arrivals.

The Prime Minister made the declaration at the Golden Gates World Outreach Church on Carmichael Road following a National Heroes Committee service. The Committee has for years lobbied to formally and officially recognise Bahamian greats that have set precedents in the country.

“If in fact there is a decision that causes the government concern,” Mr Christie said, “then the government will have to make an intervention to speak to them about it, but I don’t envision them to make decisions that will be harmful and act as a disincentive to airport traffic and airlines coming into the Bahamas, it wouldn’t make sense.

“I assume in appointing a manager of NAD that they’re not going to take steps that will be harmful to the tourism industry. They will be open to discussions from the Airport Authority Board.”

On Tuesday, tour operators spoke out on the Automated Vehicle Identification System (AVI) that is to be implemented by the end of the year. NAD officials have insisted that the system is projected to bring much needed regulations to ground transportation at LPIA cutting down on traffic congestion among other things.

The system will also incorporate a billing for drivers each time they exit the airport’s commercial lane carrying passengers.

However, sources inside the transportation industry said companies are having a hard time accepting NAD’s new regulations.

The Tribune understands that taxis will be charged $1 per exit and tour buses and vehicles carrying less than 15 passengers will be billed $5. Forms of transport capable of carrying more than 15 people would be billed $10. Limos and Town cars will have a $2.50 fee.