Open Skies

Open Skies refers to international aviation agreements that remove restrictions on airline routes, capacity, and pricing between participating countries. They allow airlines to operate more freely, enhancing international connectivity and offering travelers more choices.

Countries sign bilateral or multilateral agreements outlining the terms under which airlines can operate. These terms include rights to fly on specific routes, frequency of flights, and pricing freedoms (the ability of airlines to set their own fares).

Open Skies agreements increase competition, as they enable multiple airlines to operate on the same routes. As a result, travelers benefit from a wider range of flight options, more flexible scheduling, and competitive pricing.

The increased air connectivity stimulates tourism and trade between participating countries, thereby contributing to overall economic development. For example, the EU-US Open Skies Agreement allows airlines from both regions to fly between the United States and the European Union without restrictions.