With the completion of the construction of the Palmerola International Airport, a growth in passenger traffic is expected, in the generation of jobs and therefore the contribution to GDP.
The vice president for the Americas of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Peter Cerdá, conducted an interview for the newspaper El Heraldo, on what it holds for commercial aviation in Central America.
On the situation of commercial aviation in the region:
"Due to its geographic location, Central America is well positioned to accommodate north-south traffic flows. This is evident with the establishment of important centers and connection in Panama and El Salvador. Our members have increased operations in the region in the last five years and continue to add services."
Long-term future of passenger traffic passing through Central America:
"Currently, traffic in Central America is 22.7 million passengers, providing more than 850,000 jobs and 17.9 billion dollars to GDP. In the next 20 years, these figures are expected to be 50.9 million passengers, 1.6 million jobs and a contribution of $ 46.4 billion to GDP. However, these projections can only be a reality if the industry has the necessary support from governments, assuming a position as facilitators of commercial aviation."
Benefits that the construction of the Palmerola International Airport brings:
"The construction of the new airport in Palmerola is a development that IATA sees with good eyes for HOnduras. This airport will be able to accommodate larger aircraft that currently can not operate in Toncontín, thus allowing existing operators to have the option to increase capacity and possibly to attract new operators. It will increase traffic flows and connectivity, which will have benefits for the Honduran economy. However, to take advantage of the benefits that the new airport will bring to Honduras, it is necessary that governments take care not to transfer the cost of the new airport to its operators. It is important to ensure that the concessionaire has the experience in airport administration."
Governments and operating conditions for airlines:
"Governments must understand the important contribution of aviation to the economy and the generation of jobs in their countries. The development of the industry should be included as part of the State's agenda of the countries. The role of the State should be facilitated to boost aeronautical growth in the region. They must align their aviation regulatory framework with global best practices, guarantee competitive costs and efficient airport management through open communication with the industry. They must also ensure transparency and industry participation in the planning and development of infrastructure."
Obstacles to commercial aviation in the region that prevent its growth:
"While it is true that the presence of aviation has increased in recent years, there is still little room to improve certain elements such as the regulatory environment, airport infrastructure and high taxes and airport charges that reduce the competitiveness of the region. Addressing these problems will allow the Central American countries to truly exploit their geographic potential and allow aviation to bring greater value to the economies of the countries."
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