MINISTER of Transport and Works Mike Henry says that Jamaica is ready to sign new deals, which will bring more flights into the island.

He cited improvements carried out at the island’s two international airports, noting that the facilities can accommodate up to 10 million more travellers.

Henry was speaking at a cultural reception for delegates attending the 3rd International Civil Aviation Organization conference (ICAO), held last week in Montego Bay.

Representatives from 43 member states of ICAO

are attending the six-day conference, where Jamaica is set to sign at least seven new open skies agreements and open the door for another 20 or more contracts.

According to the minister, the conference is important in boosting Jamaica’s open skies policy and expand the aeronautical industry, by inviting more countries to fly into Jamaica.

These arrangements to be concluded, he said, will positively impact on the running of the island’s airports, lead to better business opportunities, lower the cost of travel, and boost job creation and the visitor market. He said that the intention is to make Jamaica a hub for the travelling world.

Henry encouraged the delegates, even as they conclude the formal arrangements, to take time out to enjoy the offerings of the country.

The ICAO is the United Nations agency with responsibility for international civil aviation. To facilitate the ease and convenience of member states negotiating air service agreements, the agency devised the ICAN Conference, so that delegates could meet annually, at one venue, to negotiate deals.

More than 150 delegates are participating in the conference, which ends on July 2. During the six days, Jamaica expects to negotiate agreements with countries from Africa, Europe, Asia, North and South America.