Monday, May 19, 2025
In 2024, the Dominican Republic’s aviation sector experienced unprecedented growth, marking a significant milestone in its journey to becoming a central hub in the Caribbean.
The nation recorded a historic 19 million air passengers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 32%, and setting the stage for continued expansion in 2025.
This surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including the implementation of the Open Skies agreement with the United States and the rapid ascent of the national low-cost carrier, Arajet.
Record-Breaking Passenger Traffic
According to the Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Board (Junta de Aviación Civil), the country’s airports collectively handled 19 million passengers in 2024, a significant increase from previous years. This growth reflects the country’s robust tourism sector and its appeal as a travel destination.
Notably, Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) led the charge, processing over 9.5 million passengers, followed by Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo with approximately 5.5 million passengers, and Cibao International Airport (STI) in Santiago handling over 2.2 million passengers .
The Open Skies Agreement: A Catalyst for Growth
A pivotal development in this aviation boom was the enforcement of the Open Skies agreement between the Dominican Republic and the United States in December 2024. This bilateral agreement liberalized air travel between the two nations, removing restrictions on routes, capacity, and pricing. The agreement aims to promote competition, reduce costs for consumers, and enhance connectivity .
The Open Skies policy has historically led to increased flight options and lower airfares. In the case of the Dominican Republic, it has opened doors for local carriers to expand their reach into the U.S. market, fostering economic growth and strengthening people-to-people ties.
Arajet: The National Carrier’s Meteoric Rise
Established in 2022, Arajet has swiftly positioned itself as the Dominican Republic’s flagship airline. Operating a modern fleet of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, the airline has expanded its network across North, Central, and South America. In 2024, Arajet transported over one million passengers, becoming the first Dominican airline to achieve this milestone .
The Open Skies agreement has been instrumental in Arajet’s expansion into the U.S. market. In April 2025, the airline launched its inaugural U.S. flight, connecting Santo Domingo with Miami. Subsequent routes include flights from Santo Domingo to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and to Newark, New Jersey, with plans to add destinations such as Chicago, Washington, Boston, and Orlando.
To support its growing network, Arajet has entered into leasing agreements for additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled for 2026 and 2027 . This fleet expansion underscores the airline’s commitment to providing affordable and efficient air travel across the Americas.
Airport Dynamics: Catering to Diverse Markets
The Dominican Republic’s major airports have tailored their services to meet the needs of various traveler demographics:
- Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ): As the country’s primary tourism gateway, PUJ handles over half of all air traffic, serving leisure travelers predominantly from the United States, Canada, Colombia, and Argentina.
- Las Américas International Airport (SDQ): Located in the capital, Santo Domingo, SDQ processed approximately 5.5 million passengers in 2024. The airport primarily serves the Dominican diaspora, facilitating travel for nationals visiting family or returning from abroad .
- Cibao International Airport (STI): Serving Santiago, the country’s second-largest city, STI focuses on flights to and from the northeastern U.S., catering to a significant Dominican community residing there.
These airports collectively support the nation’s dual aviation identity: a premier tourist destination and a vital link for its diaspora.
Future Outlook: Establishing a Caribbean Aviation Hub
The convergence of record-breaking passenger numbers, strategic policy implementations, and the rise of a national carrier positions the Dominican Republic to evolve into a central aviation hub in the Caribbean.
The ongoing investments in airport infrastructure, coupled with the expansion of flight networks, are expected to enhance the country’s connectivity and competitiveness in the region.
As the Dominican Republic continues to capitalize on these developments, it stands poised to offer travelers seamless access across the Americas, bolstering its economy and reinforcing its status as a key player in global aviation.
