New draft law to improve air communications in the Caribbean region of the Netherlands

The Hague – The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (IenW) wants to change the BES aviation law. This change allows special rules to be established for air routes in the Dutch Caribbean and between the islands and other parts of the Kingdom. Anyone can respond to this proposal until July 26.

Under the new law, the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management can set rules for airlines flying on certain routes. For example, maximum ticket prices, minimum number of flights per week and a certain number of seats per flight. The Minister can also decide to select one airline for these routes through a tender.

The purpose of this change is to improve accessibility to the islands located in the Netherlands' Caribbean region. Good air communication with Sint Maarten is especially important for Sint Eustatius and Saba. Better accessibility helps achieve economic and social development and ensures easy access to schools and hospitals, for example.

The law is now in the first stage, consultation. New rules can only be introduced after the law is approved. Then the money still has to be found for it. The new government will decide this matter.

Until 26 July 2024, everyone can have their say on this proposal via the Overheid.nl website.

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