Our History
From the first recorded flights over Jamaica to modern towers, radar systems, and a connected member platform, this page traces the public story behind the professionals who keep Jamaica's skies moving safely.
Jamaica Flight Information Region
1911
Early aviation
Jamaica's aviation story began with early demonstration flights and grew into a national transport system connecting the island to the Caribbean and the wider world.
Norman Manley International Airport history
1948
National network
The Kingston Air Traffic Control Centre was established alongside Palisadoes Airport, now Norman Manley International Airport, and Montego Bay Airport, now Sangster International Airport.
Norman Manley International Airport history
1949
Public ownership
Montego Bay's airport, later named Sangster International Airport, moved from Pan American operation to Jamaican government control as commercial aviation continued to expand.
Sangster International Airport historyModernization
The modern era connects tower operations, Kingston centre coordination, radar sites, and digital communication systems into a more resilient air navigation network.
2016
Modernization
Jamaica's air navigation service delivery was strengthened through a major tower modernization programme at Norman Manley International Airport and Sangster International Airport.
2017
Islandwide systems
Jamaica's modernization programme connected tower, centre, and radar operations through upgraded communications, navigation, surveillance, and air traffic management systems.
Today
JATCA community
JATCA's digital platform brings member services, public education, events, facilities, media, wellness, and union information into one accessible place.
Living archive
This page is designed to grow as JATCA adds official dates, retired-member memories, facility photographs, awards, and historical records from the association.
