Carib Scope

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  • Passengers recount scary belly landing at Eleuthera airport

    Passengers recount scary belly landing at Eleuthera airport

    A routine flight turned into a harrowing ordeal yesterday when a Pineapple Air Beech 1900 aircraft was forced to execute a belly landing at Governor’s Harbour Airport in Eleuthera. The incident, which occurred after the plane experienced a critical failure of its landing gear upon touchdown, sent passengers scrambling to safety as smoke billowed from the metal propellers scraping violently against the runway.

    The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority confirmed that the aircraft became disabled on the runway, prompting an immediate temporary shutdown of the airport. This closure resulted in significant delays for other flights, as the disabled plane blocked the only available runway. Miraculously, all nineteen passengers and crew members aboard escaped without any physical injuries.

    Eyewitness accounts from passengers detail the moments of panic and confusion. Heather Carey, a frequent flyer between Eleuthera and New Providence, described the sequence of events. “There was a loud pop, followed by an incredible scraping and loud noise,” she recounted. Initial assumptions of a blown tire quickly gave way to terror as the aircraft began to serpentine and smoke became visible, revealing the true severity of the situation. “That’s the point where we were like, oh s**t, the landing gear is not there, we’re on our belly,” Ms. Carey stated.

    The emergency response was swift, with fire trucks rushing to the scene. However, passengers have raised serious concerns about the lack of communication and post-incident support from the airline’s staff. Ms. Carey, who took it upon herself to assist others off the aircraft, reported that there were no immediate checks for injuries and no clear instructions from the cockpit crew before or after the landing. The intercom system, she noted, is often difficult to understand, highlighting a broader safety issue.

    Despite the communication failures, the pilot’s skill in handling the crippled aircraft was widely praised by those on board, who credited the aviator for preventing a catastrophe. In the aftermath, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority has launched a full-scale probe into the mechanical failure, coordinating with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Bahamas and the Airport Authority. A preliminary report detailing the cause of the landing gear malfunction is anticipated within the next 30 days.

  • Ferguson rejects apology, sues govt over Grand Lucayan payout claims

    Ferguson rejects apology, sues govt over Grand Lucayan payout claims

    Obie Ferguson, President of the Trade Union Congress, has declared that an apology would be insufficient to resolve a escalating conflict stemming from allegations that he collaborated with government officials to authorize severance packages for Grand Lucayan employees. Mr. Ferguson has initiated legal proceedings, asserting that the reports have severely tarnished his longstanding reputation.

    He vehemently denied any participation in a meeting with Labour Director Howard Thompson and chief labour negotiator Bernard Evans to deliberate on redundancy terms for 94 middle managers. “My reputation and my good name are all I possess, and I cannot afford to have them compromised,” Ferguson stated, emphasizing the personal and professional stakes involved.

    The controversy originated in February when Phylicia Woods-Hanna, Director of Investments, publicly announced that Thompson and Evans had consulted with Mr. Ferguson to finalize appropriate settlement figures for union members. This account was later adjusted by Mr. Thompson, who clarified that while telephone discussions had occurred, no in-person meeting took place and no definitive agreement was established.

    Mr. Ferguson contends that the initial statement was not an innocent error but a calculated effort to discredit his integrity. “They are fully aware of their actions,” he asserted. “They know no such meeting with me ever occurred. I first learned of these claims through a television news broadcast.”

    In addition to suing government officials, including Woods-Hanna, for drafting and disseminating the document to the press, Ferguson also criticized media outlets for publishing the claims without adequate verification. While not currently pursuing action against the press, he warned that their involvement exposes them to potential legal repercussions.

    The widespread publication of the reports triggered a flood of reactions, causing confusion among workers who were led to believe their union representative had consented to the severance terms. Ferguson further scrutinized the proposed payouts, suggesting they may not align with the full entitlements guaranteed to workers under Bahamian law.

  • KSAMC moves to enforcement phase of signage regularisation campaign

    KSAMC moves to enforcement phase of signage regularisation campaign

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Municipal authorities in Kingston are preparing to implement stringent enforcement measures against non-compliant business signage after a voluntary regularization campaign yielded minimal participation. The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) announced it will transition to Phase Two of its signage compliance initiative beginning April 1, following disappointing results from its incentive-based approach.

    Initiated in January 2026, the campaign initially offered businesses a 20 percent discount to encourage voluntary adherence to municipal signage regulations. Despite comprehensive outreach efforts and stakeholder engagement, only 16 percent of businesses have complied with the requirements, prompting authorities to adopt a more assertive enforcement strategy.

    Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby recently convened a strategic meeting with senior officials from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Areas 4 and 5 to coordinate enforcement capabilities. The collaboration aims to ensure consistent application of signage regulations across the Corporate Area while maintaining public order during compliance operations.

    Assistant Commissioner of Police Michael Phipps, Head of Area 4, pledged full operational support to the municipal corporation, stating: ‘The KSAMC is a very significant stakeholder, and as such, the KSAMC has our full support in ensuring that their duties are carried out in a safe and peaceful manner.’

    Mayor Swaby emphasized the transitional nature of the campaign, noting: ‘This campaign has always been about partnership and progress. We provided ample opportunity for voluntary compliance through incentives and public education. As we now move into enforcement starting April 1, our goal is to ensure fairness, order, and a level playing field for all businesses.’

    During the initial phase, KSAMC engaged extensively with various stakeholders, including business operators, umbrella organizations such as the Small Business Association of Jamaica and the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ), and the general public through targeted radio advertisements and awareness initiatives.

    The forthcoming enforcement phase will involve intensified monitoring, systematic inspections, and corrective actions against non-compliant entities. Municipal authorities are urging remaining business operators to promptly regularize their signage before the enforcement measures take effect.

  • Guyana warns of economic disruption due to Middle East war

    Guyana warns of economic disruption due to Middle East war

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana—The Guyanese government has issued a stark warning about the potentially severe global economic repercussions stemming from the ongoing Middle East conflict, with particular emphasis on the escalating tensions disrupting the vital Strait of Hormuz. Addressing the 136th General Meeting of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), President Irfaan Ali articulated deep concerns that the instability in this critical energy corridor threatens worldwide economic stability, including that of Guyana.

    President Ali expressed solidarity with international appeals for diplomatic engagement and peaceful resolution to de-escalate the situation. “I join with President Trump in the United States in urging all parties in the Gulf to move towards dialogue and constructive conversations to normalize the situation,” he stated, highlighting the universal impact of the crisis.

    The context of this warning follows the February 28 military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iranian missile infrastructure, military installations, and leadership targets in Tehran and beyond, which resulted in the death of Iran’s long-serving Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has intensified operations targeting U.S. forces and has increasingly focused on energy and maritime infrastructure throughout the Gulf. These actions, including threats to commercial shipping and reported attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, have significantly reduced tanker traffic and ignited international anxiety over potential disruptions to energy supplies.

    President Ali underscored the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a maritime passage responsible for facilitating 20 to 25 percent of global seaborne oil trade and substantial volumes of natural gas. He reported that disruptions have already begun to strain global markets, citing that 17 percent of Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity has been recently affected. The ripple effects are manifesting in increased costs across multiple sectors; fertilizer prices have surged by 25 percent, a development that portends direct consequences for international agriculture and food production networks.

    “These are essential components for manufacturing, industrial development, and most economies around the world,” Ali told the assembled business leaders. He cautioned that even an immediate cessation of hostilities would not avert long-term challenges, estimating that damage to the Gulf’s energy infrastructure could require up to five years for full repair. The heightened risks have already precipitated a sharp rise in freight, transport, and maritime insurance costs, further straining global trade logistics.

    In response to these mounting global energy uncertainties, President Ali announced a renewed governmental initiative to establish a domestic oil refinery, framing it as a critical national security priority. Despite Guyana’s emergence as a significant oil-producing nation, it remains heavily dependent on imported fuel, particularly for electricity generation. The substantial fuel expenses incurred by Guyana Power and Light Inc. are vulnerable to global price shocks, and investing in domestic refining capacity is envisioned as a strategic move to gain greater control over fuel supply, pricing, and long-term energy security.

    This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance national energy infrastructure, including the ongoing gas-to-energy project, which aims to reduce reliance on imported fuels and ultimately lower electricity costs. President Ali concluded by emphasizing the necessity of close collaboration between the government and the business community to navigate the volatile global environment and sustain Guyana’s robust economic growth, affirming, “We are vigilant, we are responsible, and we stand ready to make the necessary adjustments.”

  • Goule-Toppin into semis of women’s 800m at World Athletics Indoor Championships

    Goule-Toppin into semis of women’s 800m at World Athletics Indoor Championships

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican middle-distance runner Natoya Goule-Toppin secured her position in the semi-finals of the women’s 800m event during the World Athletics Indoor Championships on Friday. Competing at Toruń’s Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena in Poland, the seasoned athlete completed her initial heat with a time of 2:01.32, earning second place and demonstrating strategic racing prowess.

    Goule-Toppin, who previously reached the finals in the 2022 championship held in Serbia, dominated much of the race before being overtaken near the finish by Norway’s Pernille Karlsen Antonsen. Antonsen achieved a national record with her winning time of 2:00.77, showcasing the high level of competition in the event.

    In contrast, Jamaica’s other representative, Kelly-Ann Beckford, saw her championship hopes conclude in the opening round. Beckford finished fifth in her respective heat with a time of 2:04.09, which was insufficient to advance to the next stage of the competition.

    The semi-finals will determine which athletes qualify for the championship final, with Goule-Toppin positioned to continue Jamaica’s representation in the later stages of the tournament.

  • World Indoors: Reheem Hayles advances to 400m semis

    World Indoors: Reheem Hayles advances to 400m semis

    On the inaugural morning of the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Toruń, Poland, British sprinter Reheem Hayles clinched a coveted semi-final position in the men’s 400m event. The intense opening round, held at the Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena this Friday, saw Hayles deliver a formidable performance, clocking in at 46.66 seconds. This impressive time earned him a second-place finish in his heat, trailing closely behind American athlete Chris Robinson, who seized victory with a swift 46.34 seconds. Both frontrunners secured automatic qualification for the semi-finals scheduled later that day.

    The race was not without its dramatic turns. Jamaica’s Delano Kennedy, despite achieving a personal lifetime indoor best of 47.02 seconds, was unable to advance beyond the initial round after placing third. The outcome of his heat was further altered by a significant post-race decision. France’s Muhammad Abdallah Kounta, who had initially crossed the finish line first, was subsequently disqualified due to a lane violation. This ruling reshuffled the final standings but ultimately did not grant Kennedy a progressing slot, underscoring the high-stakes and stringent regulations of international competition.

  • Distin finishes10th in women’s high jump at World Indoors

    Distin finishes10th in women’s high jump at World Indoors

    Jamaican high jumper Lamara Distin concluded her inaugural appearance at the World Athletics Indoor Championships with a tenth-place finish in the women’s high jump event. The competition commenced on Friday morning at the Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena in Toruń, Poland.

    Distin, who entered the championships with a season’s best mark of 1.96 meters, faced an unexpected challenge. She successfully cleared the initial height of 1.85m but was unable to advance beyond the subsequent bar set at 1.93m, resulting in her elimination from the contest.

    The athlete, a distinguished three-time NCAA champion during her tenure at Texas A&M University, was making her debut at the World Indoor Championships. This appearance follows her previous experience as a finalist at the 2023 World Athletics Championships held in Budapest.

    A unique format of the indoor championships dictates that all field events proceed directly to finals, eliminating preliminary rounds and placing immediate pressure on athletes to perform at their peak from the first attempt.

  • Three Jamaican men advance to 60m semis at World Indoors

    Three Jamaican men advance to 60m semis at World Indoors

    The World Athletics Indoor Championships commenced with electrifying speed on Friday at Poland’s Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena in Toruń, where Jamaica’s sprint contingent delivered a commanding performance in the men’s 60-meter dash. All three Jamaican entrants successfully secured their places in the semi-finals following impressive victories in their preliminary heats.

    Bryan Levell, Kishane Thompson, and Ackeem Blake—the latter being the reigning World Indoor Tour series champion—each demonstrated exceptional form by winning their respective races. Their advancement sets the stage for a highly anticipated semi-final round scheduled for the same evening’s session.

    Levell posted a blistering time of 6.53 seconds, tying with Belgium’s Simon Verherstraeten for the third-fastest time overall in the qualifying rounds. Thompson followed closely with a strong run of 6.56 seconds. Blake, the bronze medalist from the 2022 championships in Glasgow, secured his progression with a time of 6.59 seconds, edging out a narrow victory over Claude Itoungue Bogognie of Cameroon in a tightly contested heat.

    The overall qualifying leader was American sprinter Trevon Bromell, who topped the timesheets with a swift 6.52 seconds, positioning himself as a formidable contender as the competition progresses.

  • TAP THE CAPITAL MARKETS

    TAP THE CAPITAL MARKETS

    Jamaica’s critical infrastructure operators face mounting pressure to revolutionize their funding approaches as climate disasters and global energy instability reveal the inadequacy of traditional financing models. The urgent call for reform emerged during the Office of Utilities Regulation’s 12th annual stakeholder forum in Kingston, where financial and utility leaders debated solutions to the island’s infrastructure financing crisis.

    Jamaica Stock Exchange CEO Livingstone Morrison challenged utility companies to aggressively pursue capital markets through structured instruments including climate bonds, parametric insurance products, and dedicated infrastructure funds. “Capital availability isn’t the constraint—institutional appetite exists,” Morrison asserted. “The missing element is a pipeline of properly governed, investment-ready projects that can attract long-term financing.”

    The proposition encountered resistance from National Water Commission acting President Kevin Kerr, who countered that the fundamental challenge lies in the economics of essential infrastructure. “Water projects don’t deliver immediate returns—they ensure future water security,” Kerr emphasized, noting that such investments frequently fail to align with capital market expectations despite their critical importance.

    The financing debate gains urgency against Jamaica’s recent experience with Hurricane Melissa, which left 77% of Jamaica Public Service customers without electricity and generated a $350 million restoration bill. Unlike the government’s access to pre-arranged disaster funding mechanisms exceeding $600 million, utilities lack equivalent systems, forcing dependence on post-disaster loans and emergency arrangements negotiated under crisis conditions.

    Morrison proposed several market-based solutions including parametric insurance policies that trigger automatic payouts based on predefined storm metrics, alongside expanded use of catastrophe bonds and infrastructure-focused investment vehicles. Jamaica’s existing electricity disaster fund, valued at approximately $50 million, was deemed insufficient given recent storm impacts, highlighting the need for more robust financing structures.

    The JSE CEO identified institutional investors—particularly Jamaica’s pension funds holding over $700 billion in assets—as ideal partners for infrastructure projects seeking stable, long-term returns. This capital market push coincides with Jamaica’s accelerated renewable energy transition targeting 50% generation by 2030, which Morrison directly linked to national resilience objectives.

    The analysis further highlighted how global energy supply disruptions, including Middle East volatility, intensify pressure on import-dependent economies like Jamaica. Morrison specifically advocated for selective undergrounding of electricity networks in critical zones including medical facilities, commercial districts, and tourism corridors, suggesting such capital-intensive projects could be financed through institutional capital rather than short-term rate increases.

    Regulators were urged to strengthen frameworks for resilience financing, including mandates for utilities to maintain comprehensive disaster financing plans and risk-appropriate insurance coverage. “When a single storm can simultaneously disrupt infrastructure, the economy, and the financial system,” Morrison concluded, “pre-arranged financing transitions from theoretical concept to essential strategy.”

  • Japan’s automotive Disneyland

    Japan’s automotive Disneyland

    In the heart of Tokyo’s Shinonome district lies a revolutionary retail concept that transcends traditional automotive shopping. A PIT AUTOBACS Shinonome, the flagship store of Japan’s renowned AUTOBACS chain, has transformed the conventional auto parts store into an immersive automotive lifestyle destination that caters to both practical needs and enthusiast dreams.

    The AUTOBACS legacy began in 1947 when Toshio Sumino established Suehiro Shokai as an automobile parts wholesaler in Osaka. The brand name itself represents an acronym for Appeal, Unique, Tires, Oil, Batteries, Accessories, Car audio, and Service. The company pioneered Japan’s first one-stop automotive specialty store in 1974, triggering exponential growth that saw the chain expand from a single location to 100 stores within five years. Today, the AUTOBACS Group operates 1,143 stores globally, with 1,012 domestic locations and 131 international outlets across Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, and France.

    A PIT AUTOBACS represents the evolution of this retail phenomenon. The three-level facility functions as both service center and automotive paradise. The ground floor operates as a professional pit area where vehicles receive comprehensive services from basic maintenance to performance installations. The second level presents an extensive collection of automotive goods, complemented by a Tsutaya bookstore, car-themed clothing collections, and an integrated Starbucks café where customers can observe technical work via monitor displays.

    The third floor elevates the experience to automotive nirvana, featuring dedicated sections from legendary tuning companies including HKS Gate—a technical partnership that produces exclusive parts for Subaru Levorg and Suzuki Swift Sport models. Enthusiasts can explore products from Blitz, TEIN, NISMO, and test-fit seating from Bride and Recaro. Beyond the main building, the complex includes a dedicated wheel and tire facility, dealership services, and demonstration vehicles showcasing HKS products and technical expertise.

    The property’s parking lot frequently hosts automotive gatherings and events, rivaling Japan’s famous Daikoku Parking Area as a cultural hub. For international visitors and local enthusiasts alike, A PIT AUTOBACS offers the unique opportunity to physically interact with products typically only seen in digital catalogs, creating an experiential retail environment that celebrates automotive culture in its most tangible form.