THE Boscobel Aerodrome in St Mary, Jamaica is set to become the third international port of call within the Jamaican aviation network.

"It will be the third international port of entry into Jamaica, (and) it will be equipped with all the Immigration and Customs (facilities) that is necessary," said Minister of Transport and Works Michael Henry in a statement issued by the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), the information agency of the Government of Jamaica.

This development is part of the government's plan to create a network of airports, with a view to expanding communications.

Mr Henry's comments were made during a speech delivered at a joint function to mark the opening of MBJ Airports Limited's new domestic terminal at the Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay, and the launch of Jamaica Air Shuttle, a new domestic inter-island air service.

He said that this airport development programme is part of the multi-modal transportation policy of his ministry that involves the development and connectivity of road, sea, rail and air transportation sectors.

Mr Henry said that this will include the development of Vernamfield as an air cargo hub in southern Clarendon, plus the establishment of logistics centres.

"All this is being complemented by an international approach, to ensure that Jamaica moves from merely air service agreements and more into an open skies policy approach," he said.

He said that he will be taking an open skies policy document to cabinet, as soon as possible.

Mr Henry also announced the formation of Jamaica Far East Cargo Limited, owned by investors from the Far East, which will be pursuing flights to Jamaica, shortly. He pointed out that the company does not require government support or guarantees, and is fully registered.