TRANSPORT and Mining Minister Lester ‘Mike’ Henry says the Government will be pursuing an open skies policy.

This is an agreement under which two or more countries allow unrestricted overflight and landing rights to one another.

In remarks, read on his behalf by Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority Chairman Phillip Henriques at the opening of a new air traffic control tower at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston on Wednesday, Henry said the policy is being pursued to increase connectivity to the island and promote Jamaica as a regional hub.

“It will also encourage competition and expansion of international air services,” he said.

He noted that the policy will provide an environment that will encourage operations into Jamaica’s international airports.

In addition, it will facilitate the development of Jamaica’s international trade, investments, tourism and all sectors of air transport.

The transport and mining minister informed that, since 2010, Jamaica has negotiated bilateral air services agreements with more than 20 states.