With the signing yesterday of the Open Skies Agreement with the United States, the Dominican Republic will not only benefit in the aviation and tourism sectors but will also boost trade between the two nations and enhance competitiveness.
This was highlighted by President Luis Abinader during the event where Tourism Minister David Collado and José Fernández, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, signed the agreement after more than 25 years of negotiations. They echoed the President’s sentiments.
According to Abinader, the agreement also serves as an impetus for expanding opportunities in international air transport because—he clarified—the geographical location of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean can be maximally leveraged to turn the country into a regional air hub that attracts negotiators and investors.
“This is part of our vision of an open country where every flight represents a chance for progress and development,” he noted.
The President stated that this is a fundamental step for strengthening international connections and the economic development of the Dominican Republic.
He emphasized that the agreement establishes the groundwork for an international aviation system based on equal opportunities for companies and free competition.
“Thanks to this agreement, travelers and carriers will have access to a wide range of service options. Airlines will be able to offer not only competitive fares but also services that meet the diverse needs of our citizens and visitors. I aspire to have an air bridge between the country and several U.S. cities,” he remarked.
According to Abinader, by allowing airlines to be proactive in implementing innovative pricing, they create an ecosystem where competition will benefit everyone.
“I am convinced that this agreement will open new doors and strengthen the ties between our nation and the United States,” he stressed.
Many Advantages
José Fernández stated that the agreement will help move people, investors, goods, and services between the two countries.
He noted the interest in building a competitive and energy-efficient global supply chain together with the Dominican Republic.
“This agreement will reinforce tourism, travel, and commercial ties. It will also serve the interests of our peoples by increasing flight availability and reducing costs,” he said.
Tourism Minister David Collado, meanwhile, reminded that with the agreement’s signing, Dominican airlines will have the opportunity to fly to all U.S. states, and it will also help combat the rising cost of tickets to and from the country.
He reiterated that the Dominican Republic needs direct routes to the U.S. and, above all, better airfare prices to attract more tourists.
“In December, tickets cost $1,800 and even $2,000 in economy class. Tour operators tell me it’s cheaper to travel to Puerto Rico than to the Dominican Republic,” he specified.
U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat (of Dominican descent) stated that the agreement sends a clear message that the relations between the United States and the Dominican Republic are stronger than ever.
Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez specified that the agreement opens doors to an attractive scenario for Dominican and foreign airlines, which, he believes, will increase competitiveness with better fares from more destinations.
“Through this agreement, the Dominican government will promote the liberalization of air routes, fostering competition and facilitating access to Dominican territory from various points around the world,” he highlighted during the signing event.
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