AVIATION – OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT WITH BRAZIL
Brazilian airlines are looking to use Curaçao as a hub to the United States of America
According to various news publications Curaçao entered into a bilateral air services agreement, on an open skies basis, with Brazil. The bilateral air services agreement makes it possible for airlines of both countries to start air services between Curaçao and Brazil. The agreement applies both to carriage of passengers and carriage of cargo.
Two years ago a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Brazil and Curaçao to enter into a bilateral air services agreement. Pursuant to the MoU, Minister Earl Balborda signed the bilateral air services agreement on 3 December 2013 in Brasilia with Minister Wellington Moreira Franco, who is responsible for aviation matters in Brazil.
According to the Department of Traffic, Transport and Regional Planning the agreement creates opportunities for tourism and other economic development related to carriage by air. Brazil is one of the largest countries in South America, the Brazilian economy is growing and is seen as one of the most promising of South America. Furthermore, in 2014 the World Cup will take place in Brazil as well as the Olympic Games in 2016. Curaçao now can also benefit from these developments. The Department of Traffic, Transport and Regional Planning confirmed that more bilateral air services agreements are planned with other countries.
Curaçao Airport Holding indicated that a number of Brazilian airlines are looking to use Curaçao as a hub to the United States of America.
Sources: Amigoe 9 December 2013 and Antilliaans Dagblad 10 December 2013
(10 December 2013)
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