In a landmark move to enhance bilateral air connectivity and tourism, the Dominican Republic and Paraguay inked a new Air Services Agreement on the inaugural day of the ICAO World Conference on Air Services Agreement Negotiations (ICAN2025). The historic signing took place in Santo Domingo, marking the first time the conference has been hosted in the Dominican capital. The agreement was formalized by Nelson Mendoza Rolón, President of Paraguay’s National Directorate of Civil Aeronautics, and Héctor Porcella, President of the Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Board (JAC).
This pact is a significant milestone in fostering closer ties between the two nations, particularly in the realms of tourism and economic growth. The deal coincides with Paraguay’s ongoing negotiations with Arajet, a Dominican airline, to launch direct flights from Asunción to Santo Domingo and Punta Cana. These flights are expected to commence operations by early 2026, further solidifying the partnership. Anguie Duarte de Melillo, Paraguay’s Secretary of Tourism, emphasized the shared vision of both countries to leverage tourism as a catalyst for economic development.
Running from November 10 to 14, ICAN2025 has convened aviation authorities from across the globe to expand international air transport networks. The Dominican Republic is seizing this opportunity to strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. During the conference, the country is slated to hold 18 bilateral meetings and sign additional Air Service Agreements (ASAs) with Oman, El Salvador, Greece, and Paraguay. Preliminary discussions are also underway with Eswatini, Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Scandinavian countries (Denmark, Norway, and Sweden), Zimbabwe, and Benin.
Officials underscored that these initiatives align with the Dominican Republic’s broader strategy to enhance its global connectivity and tourism appeal, cementing its role as a key player in the international aviation landscape.