Top Cop, Regional Airline Boss Honored by TCHTA At Star Awards

The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) conferred two special awards at the 17th annual Star Awards, recognizing exceptional leadership in national security and regional aviation - two pillars essential to the strength and sustainability of the tourism industry.

Police Commissioner Fitz Bailey (centre) his award from James McAnally (left), President of the TCHTA and Stacy Cox, CEO of the TCHTA.

The Distinguished Civil Service Award was presented to Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey in recognition of measurable crime reduction, strengthened community partnerships, and his steadfast commitment to safeguarding the Turks and Caicos Islands.

During his first year at the helm of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), Commissioner Bailey led a period of significant progress, including a 43.5 percent reduction in murders, a 25 percent reduction in attempted murders, and a 29 percent reduction in firearm-related offences.

Under his leadership, 22 illegal firearms and more than 500 rounds of ammunition were recovered, while major gang networks were dismantled. Beyond enforcement, Commissioner Bailey prioritized intelligence-led policing, professional development within the Force, and consistent dialogue with key stakeholders, including the TCHTA’s membership and Board of Directors.

According to the TCHTA, These achievements of the last year reflect not only strategic direction at the highest level, but the coordinated efforts of the officers and units who execute that mandate daily across these islands with passion and pride. 

“For a tourism-driven economy, safety is foundational,” said TCHTA President, James McAnally. “Commissioner Bailey’s leadership has strengthened public security while restoring national confidence not only among residents and visitors, but within the ranks of the Force itself.”

The TCHTA noted that Commissioner Bailey has been intentional in strengthening not only operational capacity but also the morale, professional development, and well-being of the officers who place themselves on the front-line daily. He has emphasized training, advancement opportunities, and internal support systems - reinforcing that effective policing requires officers who feel respected, valued, and properly equipped to serve.

The award recognizes both results achieved and the continued partnership between law enforcement and the tourism sector.

The Association also presented its Legacy Award to Dr. Lyndon Gardiner, Founder and Chairman of interCaribbean Airways, honouring more than three decades of visionary leadership in Caribbean aviation.

Lyndon Gardiner (second right) displays his award presented by the TCHTA. From left – Stay Cox, CEO of the TCHTA, Hon. Jamell Robinson – Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border services, and James McAnally – President of the TCHTA.

Raised in Bottle Creek, North Caicos, Dr. Gardiner’s journey began in 1987 with a single aircraft and a determination to improve inter-island connectivity. Today, interCaribbean Airways stands as the largest privately-owned airline in the Caribbean, serving 24 destinations across 18 countries and territories with a fleet of more than 20 aircraft, reinforcing critical links for tourism, trade and regional mobility.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted regional air travel, interCaribbean expanded, doubling capacity and adding seven new countries to its network, reinforcing connectivity at a time when the region needed it most. 

In recognition of his contributions to Caribbean aviation and regional development, Dr. Gardiner was conferred an Honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) by the University of the West Indies and has been named World’s Leading Regional Airline Chairman at the World Travel Awards.

Beyond aviation, Dr. Gardiner established the Manville Gardiner Memorial Scholarship at the University of the West Indies and supports regional humanitarian efforts, including facilitating medical transport for children through the World Pediatric Project.

TCHTA CEO, Stacy Cox, noted, “There is profound inspiration in watching this son of the soil build an airline that now connects the Caribbean. Dr. Gardiner’s journey from humble beginnings to regional aviation pioneer is a source of immense pride for the Turks and Caicos Islands. His vision has strengthened connectivity and proves what bold Caribbean leadership can accomplish.”

These special awards underscore the Association’s recognition that tourism success depends not only on hospitality excellence, but also on safety, connectivity, and visionary leadership.

The full recap of the 2026 Star Awards, including category winners and highlights from the evening, will be released next week.