CTO and ACI-LAC Partner to Boost Caribbean Air Connectivity

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and Airports Council International – Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC) have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at improving regional air connectivity. The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the conclusion of the first CTO Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda, establishing a framework for closer collaboration between the aviation and tourism sectors across the Caribbean.

The agreement is a significant step toward addressing long-standing challenges in regional travel and aims to enhance the Caribbean's competitiveness as a global travel destination. This partnership comes at a time of notable growth in regional air traffic. According to data from ForwardKeys, overall air connectivity to the Caribbean increased by 13% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year, with intra-Caribbean connectivity seeing an even more substantial expansion of 20% during the same period.

Framework for Collaboration

The MoU outlines a non-binding framework for cooperation focused on several key areas, including improving air access, building institutional and human capacity, and fostering sustainable and resilient tourism growth. The partnership formalizes a shared goal of aligning the strategies of airports and tourism bodies to create a more seamless and efficient travel network.

"This partnership reflects a shared understanding that the future of Caribbean tourism depends on stronger collaboration between aviation and destination stakeholders," said Dona Regis-Prosper, secretary-general and CEO of CTO. "By working closely with ACI-LAC, we are creating new opportunities to strengthen air connectivity, enhance our regional aviation network, and ensure the Caribbean remains competitive, accessible and resilient in a rapidly evolving global travel landscape."

The collaboration will involve joint research, policy dialogue, and advocacy on issues critical to regional competitiveness, such as sustainability and resilience. Specific activities may include co-hosted conferences, professional development programs, joint studies on air connectivity, and the exchange of industry intelligence.

Industry Context and Impact

The agreement is backed by two of the region's most influential travel and aviation organizations. The Caribbean Tourism Organization is the primary tourism development agency for the region, while ACI-LAC represents airport operators that manage 95% of the region's air traffic. While the source material noted ACI-LAC represents over 330 airports, the organization's official data states it represents over 270 airports across 34 countries and territories.

Rafael Echevarne, director general of ACI-LAC, highlighted the critical role of air travel in the region's economy. "Air connectivity is a cornerstone of Caribbean development, linking our islands to each other and to the world," he stated. "This Memorandum of Understanding with CTO strengthens collaboration between airports and tourism stakeholders, enabling more coordinated approaches to planning, policy dialogue and capacity building in support of sustainable growth and regional resilience."

This trend of integrating aviation and tourism strategies is gaining momentum globally as destinations recognize that route development and airport infrastructure are fundamental to economic growth. The Caribbean, with its heavy reliance on tourism, stands to benefit significantly from a more unified approach. The region saw a 5% increase in passenger traffic in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to preliminary data from ACI-LAC, indicating a solid foundation for further growth.

What Comes Next

The MoU will remain in effect for an initial three-year period, serving as a platform for launching targeted initiatives. The agreement positions CTO and ACI-LAC as regional thought leaders, with plans to develop pilot programs aligned with their shared strategic priorities.

Future collaboration will focus on tangible outcomes, such as executive education, technical training, and coordinated advocacy efforts to address regulatory hurdles or infrastructure needs. The partnership aims to translate high-level strategy into practical solutions that can improve the travel experience and bolster local economies. By pooling resources and expertise, the organizations intend to create a more robust and interconnected aviation network that supports the long-term health of the Caribbean travel industry.

Why This Matters

This formal agreement signals a strategic shift from fragmented, single-destination marketing to a more cohesive, regional approach to air service development. For airlines and airport operators, it promises a more predictable and collaborative environment for route planning and investment. For the Caribbean's tourism-dependent economies, improved connectivity, particularly intra-regionally, could unlock new markets and distribute economic benefits more broadly.

flying.flights provides comprehensive commercial aviation news covering airlines, aircraft, and airports. From aircraft production to supply chains, commercial aviation manufacturing news is covered at flying.flights/manufacturing.