Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez has suggested that reducing regional travel taxes could make airfares more affordable and encourage greater movement between Caribbean nations.
Speaking on Pointe FM, Fernandez said discussions are ongoing among CARICOM tourism ministers about ways to increase intra-regional travel by reviewing the taxes imposed on airline tickets.
“One of the things we are looking at is how we can encourage more regional travel. That means we may have to examine the taxes imposed on airline tickets across the region,” he said.
Barriers to Regional Travel
Travel between Caribbean islands remains expensive due to government-imposed aviation taxes, airport fees, and fuel surcharges. These additional costs often make short flights within the region more expensive than trips to North America.
A round-trip ticket from Antigua to Barbados, which takes just over an hour, can cost more than US$300, mainly due to taxes and fees. In some cases, flights to Miami or New York are similarly priced or even cheaper.
Fernandez said that making regional travel more accessible would benefit tourism, business, and economic growth.
CARICOM Discussions and Air Connectivity
The minister said the matter is expected to be raised at the CARICOM heads of government level, where leaders will assess the potential benefits of adjusting travel taxes.
He also acknowledged that better airline connectivity is essential, highlighting efforts to restructure LIAT and improve inter-island travel options. A more efficient regional airline network would complement any tax reductions, he added.
Economic and Tourism Impact
Industry analysts have long argued that lowering aviation taxes could lead to increased passenger traffic, potentially offsetting any revenue losses. The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) have repeatedly urged governments to reconsider high tax policies on air travel, citing their impact on tourism and regional mobility.
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Should also encourage guest houses and air b n b s in the region to offer reduced rates to Caribbean nationals. Would love to rent a place in another island cheaply for 3-4 weeks for vacation, but the rates are all geared towards richer international visitors.
Good call but Antigua must lead by example
This will only benefit liat
Ouch! This man Gaston cleverly go after other government to do what he has not done in Antigua, he raising tax on vehicles saying he give are we duty free so just pay. your ideology must have reciprocity. In Antigua you kill the pocket of the poor with tax and keep them on ham and turkey and voucher helplessly unable to do for themselves while you assist white empowerment in Barbuda and wherever you can, even them being ambassador in European countries.
Finally. I support
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