During a recent visit, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aviation Jared Smith met with CNMI Governor David Apatang, Lieutenant Governor Dennis Mendiola, and other local officials and business leaders, including Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds. The group discussed the Commonwealth's air transportation challenges, which are impacting tourism and the broader economy.
The meeting highlighted key issues like a lack of airline service, the need for more flight routes, and the importance of creating partnerships to ensure reliable air travel for everyone.
Smith noted that some of the challenges raised were new to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and that there are short-term solutions they can implement without new legislation.
"Some issues were raised to our attention that we hadn't heard before where we may be able to provide some immediate assistance," Smith said.
A primary challenge for the CNMI is the high cost and limited availability of flights. Due to long distances and a lack of competition, residents and visitors face some of the highest airfares in the United States. Federal air cabotage laws worsen this issue by restricting foreign airlines from flying domestic routes, which drives up prices for travel between the CNMI and Guam.
Congresswoman King-Hinds emphasized that these discussions are not just about boosting tourism but are essential for diversifying the CNMI's economy.
