Aguadilla, Puerto Rico | March 21, 2026 — Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González-Colón, joined by Puerto Rico Ports Authority Executive Director Norberto Negrón and Aguadilla Mayor Julio Roldán, inaugurated the newly modernized air traffic control tower (ATCT) at the Rafael Hernández International Airport as part of a comprehensive initiative to enhance the airport’s safety, efficiency, and operational capacity.
The project’s investment totals $4,366,164, funded through a combination of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding secured by Governor González-Colón during her tenure in Congress, as well as matching funds from the Puerto Rico Ports Authority.
The ATCT renovation meets FAA standards and marks the first major rehabilitation of this facility since 1998, aligning it with best practices across leading U.S. international airports.
“This modernization is a direct investment in Puerto Rico’s safety and economic development. We are strengthening our airport capabilities with state-of-the-art technology that enables safer and more efficient operations. Aguadilla is thus positioned as a key hub for regional connectivity and growth,” the Governor stated.
Executive Director Negrón emphasized the strategic importance of the airport to the island’s northwest region.
“The Rafael Hernández International Airport is a central driver of economic development in Puerto Rico’s northwest. This project represents one of the most significant rehabilitation efforts at the airport in the past 50 years. The air traffic control tower had not undergone such a comprehensive upgrade since the 1990s. This initiative modernizes operations at this premier facility with new safety and air traffic control systems that support increased passenger and cargo flow, while aligning Puerto Rico with a select group of jurisdictions advancing tower rehabilitation in accordance with FAA standards,” said the Puerto Rico Ports Authority Executive Director.
Key upgrades include the installation of advanced equipment for the ATCT, improving airspace visibility and enabling more efficient flight operations, even during periods of frequent rainfall, thereby significantly enhancing aviation safety standards.
As part of the project, a new runway lighting control panel and three 1,500 VA uninterruptible power supply units were installed to ensure continuous operation of critical air traffic control systems, including radar, voice and data communications, and automated weather observation stations.
Additionally, a new Automated Weather Observing System was incorporated, providing real time data on wind, temperature, and barometric pressure, which is essential for safe aircraft takeoffs and landings.
The project also included the installation of electronic access controls in sensitive areas, grounding systems along the perimeter fencing, and lightning protection systems, significantly strengthening airport operational security and safeguarding both infrastructure and aircraft.
Interior and exterior improvements to the tower were also completed, along with the acquisition of new furnishing, creating a modern work environment that enhances productivity, efficiency, and employee well-being.
Governor González Colón noted that this inauguration is part of a broader vision to continue modernizing the Rafael Hernández International Airport and positioning it as a key driver of economic development, tourism, and air connectivity for Puerto Rico.
An additional investment of $1,194,083.68, funded by the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, was allocated to implement a new security system, including the installation of high-resolution cameras capable of capturing, storing, and transmitting real time video.
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