Caribbean tourism and aviation stakeholders have taken a significant step toward improving regional air access with the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and Airports Council International – Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC).
The agreement was formalized at the inaugural CTO Air Connectivity Summit, held in Bermuda in early March 2026, bringing together tourism ministers, airport executives, airline representatives, and policymakers to address one of the region’s most pressing priorities: sustainable air connectivity.
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A Coordinated Approach to Regional Airlift
Air access remains the backbone of Caribbean tourism. As island economies rely heavily on international arrivals, strong aviation partnerships are essential for economic resilience and long-term growth.
The new MoU establishes a collaborative framework focused on:
- Strengthening regional and international air connectivity
- Enhancing cooperation between tourism boards and airport operators
- Supporting route development strategies
- Advancing sustainability and resilience in aviation infrastructure
- Building institutional and professional capacity across member states
The partnership underscores a shared recognition that tourism performance and aviation strategy must be aligned to maintain the Caribbean’s competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global travel market.
Why Connectivity Matters More Than Ever
Caribbean destinations face ongoing challenges, including fluctuating airline capacity, operational costs, and the need to diversify source markets. By improving coordination between airports, airlines, and tourism authorities, the region can better advocate for expanded routes, optimize airlift, and enhance visitor accessibility.
The collaboration between CTO and ACI-LAC is designed to support:
- Joint research and economic impact studies
- Policy dialogue and industry advocacy
- Executive training and professional development programs
- Conferences, workshops, and technical exchanges
These initiatives aim to create a more cohesive aviation ecosystem that benefits destinations, carriers, and travelers alike.
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Driving Sustainable Growth
Beyond increasing seat capacity, the partnership places emphasis on long-term sustainability and resilience. Modern aviation strategies must account for climate adaptation, infrastructure modernization, and operational efficiency — particularly in small island states.
By aligning aviation infrastructure planning with tourism development goals, Caribbean nations can strengthen their ability to attract airlines, secure competitive routes, and maintain consistent visitor flows throughout the year.
A Strategic Milestone for the Region
The initial three-year agreement represents a forward-looking commitment to deeper collaboration between tourism and aviation sectors. It signals a unified regional approach to connectivity — recognizing that access is fundamental to economic prosperity.
For the Caribbean, improved air connectivity is not simply about transportation; it is about enabling trade, investment, cultural exchange, and sustained tourism growth.
As global travel demand continues to evolve in 2026, this strengthened partnership positions the Caribbean to remain accessible, competitive, and resilient in the international tourism landscape.
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