The Puerto Rico Ports Authority has launched a request for qualifications (RFQ) to provide operations and maintenance (O&M) services at the Authority's nine (9) regional airports located at Arecibo, Aguadilla, Culebra, Vieques, Humacao, MayagOez, Ponce, Ceiba and San Juan, as part of the renovation process to be carried out on the assets.

The O&M contract aims to increase efficiency, optimize commercial performance and improve maintenance at each of the regional airports. The contract is expected to be awarded to a private operator at the end of this year (2019), following a rigorous and transparent process carried out by the Port Authority with the assistance of the Authority for Public-Private Partnerships.

The goal of Puerto Rico's Port Authority, through this project, is to develop and promote Puerto Rico as a transportation center with world class air service in order to effectively compete in the international trade market. Moreover, the Authority seeks to improve the current financial situation and assure long-term financial wellness. Part of the project objectives include:

a) Increase operational and maintenance efficiency and reduce costs of the regional airport network;
b) Retain proven expertise and experience in the operation and maintenance of regional commercial and general aviation airports;
c) Optimize the use of the regional airport network and improve commercial performance; and
d) Incentivize economic growth outside the San Juan metropolitan area by increasing air traffic and activities related to the operations and services provided by the Regional Airports.

The Authority owns a total of ten (10) airports. Air cargo and passenger traffic in Puerto Rico is dominated by the San Juan Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport, which is currently being operated through a public-private concession for a forty (40) year term until 2052. The Authority directly operates the remaining nine (9) airports, object of the Project. The Aguadilla  and Ponce regional airports feature commercial flights and operate under a certificate issues to the Authority by the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”). The other seven (7) airports are general aviation facilities.