Guyana: Electrician Fined for Trespassing on Lethem Aerodrome

In a recent case, an electrician from Culvert City, Lethem, Central Rupununi, was fined for trespassing on the Lethem aerodrome. Leonard Pompey, 43, admitted to the offense and was convicted under Section 83(1) of the Civil Aviation Act. Lethem Magistrate Omadatt Chandan imposed a fine of GY$300,000 or a three-month imprisonment term in default. The law allows for a maximum penalty of GY$1 million and six months’ imprisonment.

This incident comes shortly after authorities issued stern warnings to the public regarding the importance of not being on hinterland runways without permission. The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Aviation Operators Association of Guyana (AOAG) have been advocating for increased awareness and responsibility around the nation’s airstrips and runways.

The GCAA has emphasized the need for the public to treat aerodromes as safety-critical infrastructure. They encourage reporting any suspicious activities or threats to aerodrome operations to the relevant authorities or anonymously to their hotline at 608-4222. The safety of the traveling public is a top priority for the GCAA.

Concerns have been raised about dangerous activities occurring on and around airstrips, including:

• Motor vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians crossing runways in front of aircraft.
• Debris, bottles, and foreign objects left on runway surfaces.
• Obstacles like stones being placed on runways.
• Runways being used as public roads or shortcuts.
• Damage to runway surfaces caused by vehicle traffic.

The AOAG has stated that these actions, while seemingly harmless, pose serious risks to pilots and passengers. They highlight that even minor obstacles can lead to significant accidents, resulting in injuries, loss of life, and damage to aircraft. Furthermore, irresponsible use of runways increases operational costs for the aviation sector, affecting air service provision to hinterland communities.

Source: demerarawaves.com