News Americas, New York, NY, August 2, 2024: Today, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez and Dominican Republic Minister of Tourism David Collado signed an Open Skies Agreement at the National Palace in Santo Domingo to enhance bilateral aviation cooperation.
Airplane on tarmac being unloaded after landing at Punta Cana Airport, Dominican Republic
The agreement, set to take effect after completing necessary internal procedures, will elevate civil aviation standards between the United States and the Dominican Republic to modern levels.
“This Agreement with the Dominican Republic will expand our strong economic and commercial partnership, promote people-to-people ties, and create new opportunities for airlines, travel companies, and customers. Air carriers will be able to provide more affordable, convenient, and efficient air services to travelers and shippers, promoting tourism and commerce. The Agreement will also commit both governments to high standards of aviation safety and security,” the U.S. stated.
Building on a framework of U.S. Open Skies agreements with over 135 other partners, this new Agreement allows U.S. air carriers to operate and expand flight networks beyond America’s borders, connecting the U.S. economy to growing markets.
The completion of this agreement follows two years of negotiations, during which U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) played a leading role, advocating for its finalization. Rep. Espaillat led multiple congressional letters, published op-eds, and held numerous meetings with high-level officials to secure the deal for Dominican American families, visitors, and American tourists.
“Today’s Open Skies Agreement between the United States and Dominican Republic is an incredible win for Americans and Dominicans alike,” said Rep. Espaillat. “This pro-consumer agreement will provide more flight options between the U.S. and D.R., lower airline fares, increase travel, and spur economic growth in both of our great nations. Most importantly, it will allow more Dominican American families, visitors, and American tourists affordable travel options to visit the country and their loved ones. Today’s agreement sends a clear message that the relationship between the United States and the Dominican Republic is stronger than ever, and we will continue to further this alliance for years to come.”
For years, Dominican American families have faced limited flight routes and high fares to and from the Dominican Republic, particularly during peak travel seasons. With today’s completion of a modern Open Skies Agreement, consumers and tourists will benefit from lower flight prices, a wider variety of flight options, and expanded airline services. This historic agreement will support the tourism economy and spur job growth in both the United States and the Dominican Republic.
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