Open Skies agreement seen as a major catalyst for aviation and tourism growth

New York.- Igor Rodríguez Durán, Director of the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC), emphasized that the Open Skies agreement with the United States presents a significant opportunity for both the civil aviation industry and its users.

During his participation in the 2024 Dominican Week organized in New York by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR), Rodríguez stated that after more than 25 years of negotiations, this historic agreement will enable greater liberalization of air transport between the two countries, paving the way for competitiveness, growth, and innovation.

“This agreement serves as a direct pathway to growth, competitiveness, and innovation, and is essential in the business sector due to the opportunities it brings,” he explained.

He also underscored that Open Skies agreements allow airlines to operate with greater flexibility, removing restrictions on routes, frequencies, and prices—benefiting both companies and consumers.

During his remarks at the event, the official highlighted the importance of the agreement for global connectivity and economic development. “With more airlines competing on our routes, prices will become more accessible, which will in turn stimulate tourism,” he argued.

Igor Rodríguez Durán, Director General of IDAC, speaking during Dominican Week 2024 in New York, organized by AMCHAMDR, on the benefits the country will gain through the Open Skies agreement. (Photo: IDAC)

Rodríguez credited these achievements to the leadership of President Luis Abinader and the commitment of Tourism Minister David Collado, noting that these initiatives will have a positive impact on the country.

Other key speakers at the event from the tourism and business sectors included Jacqueline Mora, Deputy Technical Minister of the Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic; Ernesto Bournigal Read, Superintendent of the Securities Market; and David Llibre, President of the Dominican Republic’s National Association of Hotels and Tourism (ASONAHORES), among others.

Also present were Edwin de los Santos, President of AMCHAMDR; María Álvarez, Vice President; Steven Puig, Treasurer; and Eduardo Cruz, Secretary.