WITH the opening in May of an airport on St Helena, not only will the remote south Atlantic Island’s centuries of isolation come to an end, it could also have a new role; that of a stepping stone for those travelling between South America and Africa.
In recognition of its unique position, St. Helena has become a member by both the African Travel & Tourism Association and the Latin American Travel Association.
Located 1,200 miles from the south-west coast of Africa and 1,800 miles from South America, and currently accessible only by boat, the island is best known as the final home of the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte. History might now come full circle as the island’s bygone role was to act as a vital re-fuelling stop for ships travelling between Africa and the Americas.
Commenting on the decision to join both groups, director of tourism, Chris Pickard said: ‘St Helena is uniquely positioned virtually half way between the two continents. Both are seeing significant increases in visitor numbers and we believe that St Helena could, over time, become a twin destination for holiday makers looking for a new experience.’
Although the initial air service provider (Comair/British Airways) will run a weekly flight between St Helena and Johannesburg, once the airport is fully operational the island will want to attract other operators.
Some 600 yachts stop off annually at St Helena as they sail between Africa and South America, as do thousands of cruise ship passengers travelling between the two continents.
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