And the local airline industry official who initiated the meeting has said IATA's industry experts could be instrumental in helping Bermuda take over airport operations.

The Royal Gazette reported yesterday the Management and Technology Minister, the Hon. Grant Gibbons, discussing the possible contracting of a private company, the British Airport Authority, to help Bermuda with its moves toward taking over the local airport operation from the US Navy.

Retiring Bermuda Aviation Services and Aircraft Services of Bermuda President Mr. Don Hunter was asked if the Island had other options.

He replied: "Bermuda faces a number of challenges in this endeavour. But there are answers that are available to Bermuda, simply for the asking.

"The Government has asked the BAA for help. They are a private company that is interested in making a profit.

"In my opinion, officials here could be dealing with IATA or ICAO, the convention on international civil aviation, who are specifically concerned with Airport and airline safety. Their consultancy services will be offerred for a fee, but they are not organisations who are out to make a profit.

"I can say nothing negative about the British Aiport Authority, because they have already proven themselves. But IATA and ICAO would be more than useful in this regard.'' The Geneva meeting was held at the request of Aircraft Services of Bermuda, as they and parent company Bermuda Aviation Services try to gear their resources to meet the needs of an autonomous airport of the future.

The meeting was arranged by Mr. Hunter, himself a member of IATA, in his capacity with the local firms.

Mr. Hunter said,"I requested a meeting with IATA to discuss Bermuda's situation. I was acting on behalf of ASB, as they have the power to operate an airport. Their parent company, BAS, does not.

"The meeting was set for the first week in February.

"I learned a great deal about this Airport and what needs to be done by the Bermuda Government to operate this Airport in the future.'' Mr. Hunter reported the substance of those talks to his company and made Government aware of the Geneva meeting. He said that, if asked, he would be willing to share what he learned with Government officials.

IATA is a world governing body for international air transportation, with many different branches that establish procedures and set guidelines and policies for airlines and airports.