AIR GUARD
” SERVICE ABOVE AND BEYOND “
COMMANDING OFFICER
Group Captain Kemba Hannays
Meet Group Captain Kemba Hannays, the esteemed Commander of the Trinidad and Tobago Air Guard, adorned with badges of rank during a distinguished Promotion and Appointment Ceremony on July 10, 2023, exemplifying unwavering dedication to the protection of our nation’s airspace with profound care and unwavering resolve.
Our Mission
To defend the sovereign good of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and to provide on a continuous basis, quality service for safety and security within it’s maritime boundries and any other area of responsibility agreed to by the state to fulfill its international obligation.
our roles & responsibilities
OUR HISTORY
The Airwing, an integral component of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, was established in February 1966 to execute surveillance and search and rescue operations in support of surface units. Its inception coincided with the gradual withdrawal of United States presence in the Caribbean. Originally part of the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, the Air Wing transitioned into an independent entity in 1977. Subsequently, in 2005, it was rebranded as the Trinidad & Tobago Air Guard (TTAG), with bases strategically located at Piarco International Airport, Crown Point International Airport, and the Chaguaramas Heliport.
Cabinet approval in July 2005 marked the formal establishment of the Trinidad and Tobago Air Guard as a distinct unit within the Defence Force, leading to the decommissioning of the Coast Guard Air Wing. Charged with safeguarding the nation’s airspace, the Air Guard’s responsibilities extend beyond mere patrol; it serves as a vital resource for transport, search and rescue missions, and liaison duties. Under the leadership of Group Captain Kester Weekes, who assumed command in 2019, the Air Guard remains committed to enhancing its capabilities to ensure comprehensive surveillance over Trinidad and Tobago’s sovereign territory and maritime borders.
Since its inception, the Air Guard has undergone significant evolution to adapt to the evolving security landscape. Its organizational structure has been refined to meet the demands of a complex security environment, allowing it to play an increasingly prominent role in supporting civil authorities. With a focus on protecting citizens and securing regional interests, the Air Guard continues to progress towards its mission of ensuring safety and security for all.
headquarters
* base marked using pacific blue marker *