Source: ACI-LAC

  • Memorandum of Understanding Signed at CTO Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda

Airports Council International – Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC) and the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) have formalized a strategic framework for cooperation aimed at strengthening regional air connectivity and advancing closer alignment between the aviation and tourism sectors across the Caribbean.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the conclusion of the CTO Air Connectivity Summit – Bermuda: Integrating Aviation and Regional Tourism Development, held on February 24, 2026.

The MoU establishes a non-binding framework for broad cooperation focused on improving air access, building institutional and human capacity, and supporting sustainable, resilient and inclusive tourism growth across CTO Member States and the wider Caribbean region.

“This partnership reflects a shared understanding that the future of Caribbean tourism depends on stronger collaboration between aviation and destination stakeholders,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General and CEO of CTO. “By working closely with ACI-LAC, we are creating new opportunities to strengthen air connectivity, enhance our regional aviation network, and ensure the Caribbean remains competitive, accessible and resilient in a rapidly evolving global travel landscape.”

Dr. Rafael Echevarne, Director General of ACI-LAC, stated: “Air connectivity is a cornerstone of Caribbean development, linking our islands to each other and to the world. This Memorandum of Understanding with CTO strengthens collaboration between airports and tourism authorities, enabling more coordinated approaches to planning, policy dialogue and capacity building in support of sustainable growth and regional resilience.”

Under the MoU, ACI-LAC and CTO will collaborate as regional leaders, advancing joint research, policy dialogue and advocacy on matters of shared importance, including sustainability, resilience and regional competitiveness. Areas of cooperation may include co-hosted conferences, summits and roundtables; executive education and technical training programs; joint studies on air connectivity and the economic impact of aviation and tourism; knowledge-sharing initiatives; coordinated advocacy efforts; and the development of pilot projects aligned with common strategic priorities.

The agreement will remain in effect for an initial three-year period and will serve as a platform for continued collaboration and the implementation of targeted initiatives designed to enhance regional connectivity, strengthen institutional capacity and support the long-term competitiveness of Caribbean destinations.