Private Airplanes Flock to Dominican Republic Airports

Aviation buffs are flying their small private planes to the Dominican Republic (DR) more and more due to new pilot-friendly, no-fee policies at domestic and international airports. Hundreds of private airplanes are soaring to the DR airports in the eastern Caribbean to experience the beauty of the country, sophisticated accommodations, amazing adventures, and the famous warm Dominican welcome.

 "The DR government has made a concerted effort to ensure that aviation enthusiasts can enjoy our country's magnificent beauty and fascinating culture using their favorite mode of transportation, flying in their own plane. This pilot-friendly approach has DR airports poised and eager to welcome more private pilots each year," said Magaly Toribio, the DR's Vice Minister of International Promotion.  The DR's Institute of Dominican Civil Aviation (IDAC) is partnering with the U.S. National Aviation Safety Foundation to ensure that their 199,000 member U.S. pilots have the latest information on the 13 airports that enthusiastically welcome them in the DR. The joint effort will help to inform U.S. pilots about all of the unique cultural, adventure, and historic tourism activities available to them when they visit.

 "Our initiative to promote private aviation makes sense as there is an increased desire to explore the DR by private pilots from the U.S., as well as from around the world. The DR's enviable position in the Caribbean with sophisticated domestic and international airports, amazing accommodations, unique culture and history, and breathtaking scenery are the main draw," said Toribio.  Since May 29, 2008, private airplanes under 30,000 pounds with no more than 12 passengers are exempt from any government fees in the DR. When the weather becomes cold and harsh in the north, pilots are secure in the warm tropical haven and welcome provided by the DR.

(c) Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation. Date posted: 31-Jul-09