The Federal Aviation Administration, which provides funding for the CNMI’s airport projects, noted the severe impact of the airport’s unreliable power and water supply on the safety of passengers of the airlines that fly to the commonwealth.
CPA acting Executive Director Lee Cabrera yesterday declined to comment on the FAA’s concerns.
“We have initiated communications with the governor’s office,” he added. “A response is being prepared by the Attorney General’s Office and consultations are ongoing.”
Since last year, a number of flights have been affected by the power outages at the airport.
Press Secretary Charles Reyes Jr. yesterday said the governor has already acted on the FAA’s concerns.
“The governor has instructed [the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.] to place the highest possible priority on maintaining continuous public utility service to the airport,” Reyes said.
CUC, he added, was also instructed to “sacrifice” power service to other areas in order to maintain reliable airport operations.
According to Reyes, the arrival of Aggreko’s temporary generators next month will provide Saipan reliable and continuous public utility services.
Weeks ago, the airport had only one small generator to provide power to the airport’s runway and instrument landing system in case of a blackout.
The agency’s two main generators are broken down and CPA is still awaiting the delivery of the needed spare parts.
The repair is expected to be completed in four months.
The FAA has approved the procurement of a new generator for CPA amounting to $2 million.
The generator will be delivered to Saipan in 18 months.
