US Radar in Tobago Raises New Questions, Tourism Industry Faces Major Decline

Published on November 30, 2025

The most recent addition of new military radar systems in ANR Robinson International Airport in Crown Point, Tobago, has stirred concern within the international community, especially in tourism. With the current downward trend in visitor arrivals coupled with an increase in visitor cancellations, the island’s tourism sector has become increasingly impacted. Irrespective of the growing military presence, there is concern with the geopolitical situation in Venezuela which poses the most immediate risk.

Rising Cancellations Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Tourism officials in Tobago are sounding the alarm over a significant dip in visitor arrivals, with the looming threat of US military action against Venezuela driving away tourists. Reginald MacLean, president of the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association, expressed deep concerns about the negative impact of the radar system’s presence on the island. The radar, which swivels 360 degrees, became operational on November 29 and is seen as a symbol of potential military escalation in the region.

The radar’s installation has not only made the island a perceived military target but has also ignited fears of broader conflict. MacLean, managing Blue Waters Inn, noted that cancellations had already begun to surge after tensions escalated between the US and Venezuela. He warned that the situation could worsen, causing further damage to Tobago’s already fragile tourism sector, which was just beginning to recover from the COVID-19 lockdowns.

US No-Fly Zone and Social Media Panic

On November 29, US President Donald Trump posted a warning declaring Venezuela a no-fly zone, which exacerbated fears on the island. While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) did not issue an official alert, the announcement sparked panic across local social media channels, with some users wrongly speculating that the no-fly zone extended to Trinidad and Tobago (TT). These false rumors created unnecessary chaos, prompting the country’s Defence Minister, Wayne Sturge, to dismiss the reports as misinformation.

Sturge reassured the public, clarifying that TT’s airspace remained open to both local and international commercial flights. Despite official statements, the damage was already done, with many travelers choosing to avoid the region altogether.

Impact on Tobago’s Hotel Industry

The news of potential conflict has led to a drastic decline in bookings for local hotels and resorts. MacLean shared that the situation at his hotel, Blue Waters Inn, had seen booking rates plummet from 76% to just 42%, and although there was a temporary recovery to 58%, the outlook remains grim. Hoteliers fear that the installation of the radar system will lead to even more cancellations, putting the island’s tourism industry at risk of enduring another poor season.

For Tobago’s tourism-dependent businesses, these cancellations are particularly troubling. Many hoteliers and restaurateurs are seeking compensation from the US government, which they believe is responsible for causing the turmoil. With the island facing a second consecutive bad season, MacLean stressed the need for urgent action to safeguard the local economy, which heavily relies on the tourism sector.

Tensions with Venezuela and Military Escalation

The political and military situation continues to unfold, with Venezuela condemning the US’s actions. The Venezuelan government has fiercely opposed the US’s plans, labeling them as unlawful and an infringement on the country’s sovereignty. The growing US military presence in the Caribbean has led to electronic disturbances, making airspace navigation increasingly difficult and impacting aviation safety in the region.

The United States has also ramped up pressure on Venezuela by imposing a no-fly zone over its airspace and continuing missile strikes against drug traffickers in the Caribbean Sea. These heightened tensions have already led to the suspension of numerous flights to and from Venezuela, further complicating travel in the region.

The Economic Fallout: Calls for Compensation

For the people of Tobago, these geopolitical concerns are not just abstract political matters; they are directly affecting livelihoods. The island’s tourism industry, which is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, faces the real threat of a second consecutive bad season. MacLean has called for compensation, emphasizing that the impact of the radar’s installation is undeniable. The uncertainty surrounding the region’s stability could lead to long-term damage to Tobago’s tourism, an industry that is crucial to its economic wellbeing.

Tobago’s tourism stakeholders are hoping that the Trinidad and Tobago government will take stronger action to mitigate the effects of this situation and protect the local tourism economy from further harm.

Mixed Reactions to the Radar’s Presence

While some support the radar’s installation, believing it will improve security and aid in combating drug trafficking, others are apprehensive about its long-term effects on tourism. Political leaders in Tobago, including the Chief Secretary, have voiced their concerns about not being informed in advance about the radar’s deployment. There is growing pressure for the law to be changed so that local leaders are involved in national security decisions affecting Tobago’s future.

What’s Next for Tobago’s Tourism?

As circumstances change, the Tobago tourism industry faces an uncertain future. While the radar systems might improve security and surveillance, the lack of confidence and reduced visitation continues to worsen. The impending risk of conflict, along with the unsubstantiated claims on social media, causes considerable distress for even the most resilient of Tobago’s local tourism operators. This certainly indicates that the island is unlikely to have an off-season recovery and prepare for the peak visitor season.