The nation may have to decide whether it is in the airline business or the tourism business. So far, the Ministry of Foreign Relations is voting in favor of the tourism business, and has stated its position in favor of the signing of an open sky aviation treaty with Central America and the United States. The Ministry feels it would contribute to increased competition which could result in a reduction in the cost of air fares. The open skies agreement would serve as an incentive for major foreign airlines to study flying on Dominican routes, thus increasing international competition. The present situation benefits major airlines already operating here, such as American Airlines that has a practical monopoly on the Miami-Santo Domingo route. Incipient Dominican airlines oppose the agreement saying it would place Dominican companies at a disadvantage because Dominican companies are banned from flying to the United States for the time being. The open skies agreement would allow Central American airlines, mainly TACA of El Salvador, to fly to the Dominican Republic and pick up passengers to transport to third countries. Initial talks were held with aviation representatives from El Salvador, where no decision was reached but an agreement made to meet again. Talks continue this week, with discussions from 12 January through 17 January with representatives from Guatemala, Costa Rica and Panama. The talks are held as part of agreements reached during the visit of presidents of Central America to Santo Domingo for the Central American Summit held in November.
