SANTO DOMINGO – The Dominican Republic continues to make progress in strengthening air transport, resulting in a growing number of routes for travelers and a significant improvement in international connectivity. This was reported by Héctor Porcella, president of the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), during the third ordinary session of this year.
In the session, the plenary of the Civil Aviation Board (JAC) approved the request of SETRAD, Dominican Air Transport Services, SRL, for the issuance of an Economic Authorization Certificate (CAE) under the Dominican Aeronautical Regulation (RAD) 135. This request seeks to offer non-scheduled (charter) air transport services for passengers, cargo and mail, on both national and international routes.
According to its Business Plan, SETRAD will operate aircraft with a capacity of up to 9 passengers, based at La Isabela International Airport (Dr. Joaquín Balaguer), and will dispatch its flights from Punta Cana International Airport. The company projects to begin operations in March 2025, contributing to diversifying and strengthening the country's air connectivity.
On the other hand, an application was also submitted by Sky High Aviation Services Dominicana, SA, headed by President Cesarina Virginia Beauchamps Bencosme. The application seeks a special permit to operate 80 international flights between Santo Domingo (MDSD) and Guyana (SYCJ) between March 16 and September 15, 2025. This route will be operated exclusively by Sky High, without direct competition in the sector, highlighting its strategic importance for international connectivity.
In addition, Sky High Aviation requested a special permit to operate 427 international flights under two distinct modalities: an all-cargo scheme and a combined passenger and cargo scheme. The proposed routes cover key destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America, such as Miami, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba, according to a press release.
Additionally, for informational purposes, the foreign airline JetBlue Airways has announced that it will schedule 1,220 flights on its regular routes for the winter season, which will take place from January 31 to March 7, 2025.
With the authorization of new routes, the Dominican Republic consolidates its position as a leading air hub in the Caribbean, not only for tourists but also for cargo transport, expanding business opportunities and generating a positive impact on the local economy.
