The jetways, worth $1 million each, are adjustable, enclosed mobile bridges that allow passengers to pass from the airport terminal to the airplane without being exposed to outside weather climates.
Commonwealth Ports Authority acting Executive Director Ike Perez yesterday said there will be a ceremony today, to be spearheaded by the Marianas Visitors Authority and CPA officials, to mark the installation of the jetways.
Last year, CPA requested the federal government to fund the repair and replacement of the old jetways at the Saipan airport, citing safety concerns.
Perez said the new jetways were delivered this week by CPA’s contractor, GPPC.
There are seven gates at the airport that need jetways.
Perez said the newly installed jetways are for gates 4 and 5.
Their full operation will be expected in the next few weeks after the necessary testing and inspection are completed.
Perez said their five other jetways have been refurbished through the use of federal funds.
“With all these repairs and replacements we’re putting our airport back in good service,” he said.
