The Dutch Caribbean Cooperation of Airports (DCCA) announced a measure to reduce the Passenger Facility Charges (PFC) for inter-island flights from the ABC Islands Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. This initiative, aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and making travel more accessible, aligns with the DCCA’s Joint Strategic Plan.
Starting in January 2025, the PFC for flights between these islands will be reduced from USD 36 to USD 15 per passenger, directly impacting the final ticket prices offered by local airlines. Implementation will be gradual, beginning in January in Curaçao and Bonaire and in February in Aruba. The high-traffic route between Aruba and Curaçao will be among the most benefited by this adjustment.
This decision is the result of two years of research on price elasticity for inter-island travel. A study conducted in 2023 concluded that lower fees would stimulate passenger demand. This analysis was presented during the 2023 DCCA Congress and served as the basis for the adjustment. Additionally, a pilot project in Sint Maarten, featuring reduced fees for routes to Saba and Statia, demonstrated that day trips could become more accessible with adjusted rates.
DCCA President Jonny Andersen highlighted that “airports are more than just gateways; they are vital connections that bring our islands closer. By reducing the PFC, we aim to make inter-island travel more affordable, foster unity among our communities, and support regional economic growth”.
Flights between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao
The DCCA reported that three companies operating between the islands will benefit: Divi Divi Air, Z Air, and Winair, using aircraft ranging from 9 to 45 seats. According to the Cirium platform, the three airlines combined operate up to 300 flights weekly between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, which will represent over 325,000 seats in 2024.
Divi Divi Air** with **Twin Otter DHC 6 and Britten Islander
– Curaçao – Aruba: 45 weekly flights.
– Curaçao – Bonaire: 71 weekly flights.
Z Air with Saab 340:
– Curaçao – Aruba: 8–15 weekly flights.
– Curaçao – Bonaire: 25–30 weekly flights.
– Bonaire – Aruba: 3 weekly flights.
–Winair with ATR 42-500:
– Curaçao – Aruba: 7 weekly flights.
– Curaçao – Bonaire: 2–3 weekly flights.
