The Airports Authority of Jamaica was established on July 31, 1974 as an independent statutory body whose functions are to administer, control and manage prescribed airports, and to provide and maintain such services and facilities that are necessary for their efficient operations. It is also the responsibility of the Authority to provide rescue and fire fighting equipment and services at prescribed airports.

 In the exercise of its functions the Authority may -

• Construct, alter and maintain buildings at prescribed airports and elsewhere.
• Purchase land or buildings.
• Grant to person or persons, the authority to carry on any trade or business at prescribed Airports.
• Grant leases, sub­leases or other interests or concessions for any land or building within a prescribed airport.