Transport Minister Eli Zakour has emphasized the need to make local aviation more robust and competitive.

The Minister highlighted the potential of the local industry following discussions with the T&T Civil Aviation Authority yesterday.

These include the specialized aviation training programmes, management of the Caribbean Air Navigation and Advisory Services Limited and oversight of 750,000 square miles of airspace.

He said these initiatives have the ability to boost foreign exchange earnings through increased international air traffic, maintenance services of foreign carriers, and employment opportunities.