Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (MinTEATT) Hon. Ted Richardson, left the country on Friday leading a delegation that includes SXM Airport Managing Director Regina Labega to attend Routes Americas 2014 aviation conference that is being held from 23-25 February in San Salvador, El Salvador.
Routes Americas is the essential event for all aviation based companies who wish to conduct business to, from and within the region.
"As a country we have to continue to remain on the ball, and attending Routes Americas allows us to meet with the movers, shakers and makers of the aviation industry. We have a multi-million dollar modern airport, the second busiest in the Caribbean, and our main pillar of the economy is tourism.
"We need to continue to build on our reputation and as a team we will be looking for opportunities for more airlift, and strategic partnering. Our visit allows us to update and inform the airline industry about our SXM Airport plans and at the same time be informed about industry trends and developments," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson said on Sunday from San Salvador.
Minister Richardson is also hoping to meet with El Salvador’s Minster of Tourism with respect to establishing diplomatic relations in the area of trade, commerce, tourism and economic development.
This is the seventh annual edition that brings together a range of airlines, airports and tourism authorities, including some of the largest carriers from North, Central and Latin America. This event offers a participating organization the opportunity to meet with some of the most influential aviation professionals from across the Americas region.
Over 400 aviation professionals, 70 airlines, 200 airports, 25 tourism authorities will be attending over 1100 pre-arranged meetings and there will be over 20 high level speakers.
Also accompanying Minister Richardson are representatives from the airport, tourism department and the aviation/maritime affairs department.
PHOTO CUTLINE: Minister Hon. Ted Richardson.