BergerWorld: 4th Quarter 2006

Walvis Bay (population 55,000), situated on the central west coast of Namibia, is the country's major harbor and industrial hub, as well as the center of the country's flourishing fishing industry. The Walvis Bay International Airport is experiencing rapid growth in both cargo and passenger demand, spurred by increased tourism, the designation of Walvis Bay as an Export Processing Zone and the relocation of many industries to the region. To meet the growing demand, the government of Namibia initiated the USTDA-funded Walvis Bay International Airport Upgrade Project, and the Berger Group was commissioned by the Namibia Airport Company Ltd. to carry out a feasibility study for the expansion of the airport.

Berger evaluated the technical, economic, financial and environmental feasibility of upgrading the airport, including the development of cargo handling facilities and a nearby industrial park. The study explored options for increasing the airport's efficiency and competitiveness to meet expected passenger and cargo demand over the next 20 years. As part of the study, Berger prepared a business plan that took into account the economic potential of the region, opportunities and risks in the expansion of the airport and a financial plan to identify anticipated participation from current and potential investors and the prospects for long-term financing. Finally, to attract potential investors, a detailed report of Berger's findings and recommended improvements was prepared and submitted to Namibia Airport Company Ltd. and USTDA.

The upgrades at Walvis Bay International Airport will include the extension of one existing runway, 3,440 meters in length and 60 meters in width; improvements to the existing passenger terminal building; the construction of a new terminal building; apron improvements; new runway lights; and instrument landing systems. The upgrading is expected to enable Walvis Bay to handle larger aircraft and to receive regional and intercontinental passenger and cargo flights.