The overhaul of Bermuda International Airport will have cost a staggering $46 million in seven years' time.

Transport Minister Erwin Adderley revealed the massive sums being ploughed into redevelopment projects at a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday.

And he said more than $21 million had already been spent on 36 separate schemes since the US Navy handed over control of the Airport in 1995.

The huge budget is still bulging with $25 million -- set aside for 30 projects being lined up between now and 2005.

Mr. Adderley said the Airport would "take us into the next millennium'' at the opening of the new baggage hall and Customs area.

Premier Pamela Gordon said: "We now have an airport that is first class. It is second to none.'' Airport General Manager Jack Gordon, told The Royal Gazette the Airport would still have to consider building a brand new $17 million terminal around 2020.

He also said Canadian technical experts Architectura were due to deliver a blueprint on covered walkways next month.

The walkways would link aircraft steps with the terminal -- as Airport chiefs have abandoned plans for jetway tubes, which cost $1.5 million each and do not "look Bermudian''.

Mr. Gordon added: "The cost of a new terminal would be over and above this ten-year plan.

"Some of the projects we have completed were absolutely critical and required immediate attention. Things like foreshore protection, drainage systems... they were absolute musts which had to be done.

"Some of the previous terminal renovations and the air conditioning had basically reached the end of their working lives.

"We also had to re-engineer the main apron for manoeuvring the aircraft so we are just ahead of schedule. We have achieved more than anticipated.'' More renovations for Airport The baggage hall and customs project -- phase two of the redevelopment -- cost $5 million.

Phase one, to upgrade the US and international departures area, the arrivals corridor and the immigration hall, wiped out another $7 million.

Now phase three is underway, due to finish in January, to realign car parks and redirect traffic as well as building a new taxi area and lounge.

Mr. Gordon added: "Several major projects will still have to be undertaken.

"We are looking at the rehabilitation of the cargo terminal and there is still more runway resurfacing and foreshore protection to be done.'' He said the Airport's firefighting water system also had to be replaced.

Mr. Adderley, speaking at the opening ceremony before 200 Government officials, MPs and invited guests, added: "Government is committed to providing the people of Bermuda with a safe, secure and efficient airport.'' The Minister also said Bermudians now filled every position at the airport -- except the number one job and 13 technical positions.