Argyle International Airport Achieves RA3 Certification for the United Kingdom and European Union

Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines — On Thursday, 23 October 2025, the Argyle International Airport (AIA), in collaboration with the British High Commission in Kingstown, proudly announced that the facility is now RA3 Certified for both the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU).

RA3 stands for Regulated Agent – Third Country, and the certification signifies that AIA has been designated as a Regulated Agent under UK aviation security regulations, authorizing it to handle and screen cargo bound for the UK and EU in compliance with their stringent aviation security standards.

At the announcement, Resident British Commissioner Mr. Geoffrey Patton said:

> “This certification means that fresh produce, fresh flowers, and agricultural goods can now be exported directly to the United Kingdom without the need for routing through a third-party country. It opens new trade pathways and opportunities between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the UK.”



Ms. Josette Greaves, CEO of the Argyle International Airport, emphasized the importance of the achievement:

> “This certification signifies that AIA has met all required UK and EU aviation security standards for screening, handling, and transporting cargo destined for those regions. As an RA3-approved facility, AIA can now process and export cargo directly to the United Kingdom through approved airlines, without additional screening or transhipment at intermediary airports.”



Ms. Greaves also expressed gratitude to Mr. Brian Abbott of World AVSEC—an independent validator of Vincentian heritage—for his role in the certification process. She further encouraged all AIA staff, passengers, and stakeholders to continue upholding the highest standards of security and professionalism:

> “Our security screening processes are designed not to inconvenience travellers or businesses, but to ensure safety and enable achievements like this RA3 certification.”



This milestone marks a significant step forward for St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ aviation and export industries, enhancing trade capacity and international connectivity.