While the Guyana Government is welcoming of a number of airlines seeking to ply this route, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, stressed that these airlines must undergo a rigorous regulatory process before they can start operations.
Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo emphasized that the government is keen to attract more airlines to the country, but they must meet certain international standards and pass the due diligence tests of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). Jagdeo stated that the regulatory process is strictly technical and does not involve any politicians.
He also highlighted the importance of having as many airlines as possible operating in Guyana, to develop the country as a hub for regional travel. “I think it’s in our best interest to get as many airlines to come here to fly to Guyana, possibly to develop Guyana as a hub for regional travel,” he said.
The official added, “If we have greater competition, the fares would come down, we’d have more choices, and we’d also have greater freight capacity.”
The Vice President also revealed that the government is currently in talks with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to operate direct flights between Guyana and Amsterdam which is the capital of the Netherlands. This move would make travel to and from various parts of Europe more convenient for Guyanese passengers.
During the conference, he also took the opportunity to acknowledge the recent launch of British Airways’ services to the country, which has introduced flights from Guyana to London via St. Lucia. The company commenced operations in late March.
He also announced that Sky Cana, a Dominican Republic airline, will be commencing services in Guyana from June 1, 2023, further increasing the options for travellers. This airline is expected to provide flights from Guyana to Toronto Canada and from Guyana to Houston, Texas in the United States.
Jagdeo maintained that the government is committed to improving its air transport sector, and with the stringent regulatory process in place, travellers can be assured of safe and reliable services from the airlines operating in the country.
