KRALENDIJK – The Kingdom is introducing new aviation regulations for the Caribbean Netherlands. The legislation, adopted on 22 April, amends the BES Aviation Act to bring Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba into compliance with international safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The amendments cover areas including air traffic control, navigation, communications and the oversight of air navigation services. A mandatory certification requirement will also be introduced for organisations providing such services in the airspace above the BES islands.
In addition, the legislation enables fees to be levied for air traffic services used by airlines and other airspace users.
Under the new law, the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management will be granted additional powers to exercise oversight and intervene in the event of safety issues in the airspace of the Caribbean Netherlands.
The new regulations will officially enter into force at a later date. A two-year transitional period applies to the certification requirement.
