By Zoila Palma: The Belize Airports Authority (BAA) has clarified recent discussions surrounding air service to Punta Gorda, following concerns over Tropic Air’s decision regarding its operations in southern Belize.
The BAA recognized Tropic Air as a longstanding partner in Belize’s aviation sector and acknowledged the airline’s role in providing domestic connectivity to residents, businesses and visitors.
According to the BAA, the issue was discussed during a stakeholder meeting last week, where planned upgrades to the Punta Gorda Aerodrome and related aviation security requirements were reviewed.
The BAA said, “several important issues were reviewed, including planned upgrades to the Punta Gorda Aerodrome and the associated aviation security requirements needed to support continued growth and compliance with safety standards.”
As part of discussions on funding enhanced security measures, stakeholders considered introducing a passenger security fee. The BAA said an initial proposal for a BZ$10 fee per ticket was revised following negotiations. “It was agreed that rather than implementing the initially proposed BZ$10 fee per ticket, a phased approach would be adopted,” the Authority stated.
Under the proposed phased arrangement, the fee would begin at BZ$4 per ticket in June 2027 and increase by BZ$1 annually until reaching BZ$10. However, the BAA stressed that the fee has not been finalized.
“No final decision has been taken regarding the implementation of the proposed security fee and stakeholder consultations remain active,” the BAA explained.
The BAA acknowledged concerns that the suspension of service could have on travellers and the wider Punta Gorda community, while noting that discussions on aerodrome improvements and funding remain ongoing.
The post Belize Airports Authority says stakeholder consultations remain active following discussions on fees in Punta Gorda appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The Belize Airports Authority (BAA) has clarified recent discussions surrounding air service to Punta Gorda, following concerns over Tropic Air’s decision regarding its operations in southern Belize. The BAA recognized Tropic Air as a longstanding partner in Belize’s aviation sector and acknowledged the airline’s role in providing domestic connectivity to residents, businesses
The post Belize Airports Authority says stakeholder consultations remain active following discussions on fees in Punta Gorda appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.