Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, Michael Freeland, has underscored the importance of regional cooperation and stronger international partnerships as Antigua and Barbuda hosts the Fourteenth North American, Central American and Caribbean Directors of Civil Aviation Meeting.

Addressing delegates from across the region, Freeland welcomed aviation officials, technical experts and international partners to Antigua and Barbuda, describing civil aviation as critical to the survival and economic growth of small island states.

“For countries like Antigua and Barbuda, aviation is far more than transportation. It is our connection to the world,” Freeland said during his remarks. “It drives tourism, trade, investment and opportunity.”

The minister used the occasion to highlight Antigua and Barbuda’s historic role in regional aviation development, pointing to the establishment of the Eastern Caribbean Directorate of Civil Aviation in Antigua during the 1960s.

He noted that the modern Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) continues to serve as a unique model of cooperation among small island developing states by allowing six independent nations to pool technical expertise and resources under a unified aviation framework.

Freeland said ECCAA has built a strong reputation for aviation safety and regulatory oversight, despite the challenges faced by smaller nations with limited technical and financial capacity.

He also pointed to emerging global aviation challenges including cybersecurity threats, climate resilience, sustainability targets, staffing shortages and the increasing demand for seamless international connectivity.

“The future of aviation cannot be tackled by any one country alone,” Freeland told delegates. “Partnerships and collaboration will be essential if we are to achieve the goals set out by ICAO.”

The minister thanked regional and international partners including ICAO, CARICOM states within the CASSOS framework, as well as the United States, Canada, France, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates for their continued support in strengthening aviation systems across the Caribbean.

Freeland also acknowledged conference sponsors and technical partners for helping make the regional meeting possible.

The conference brings together civil aviation leaders from North America, Central America and the Caribbean to discuss a wide range of technical and operational issues impacting international aviation.

Freeland encouraged delegates to use the gathering not only to address policy and operational concerns, but also to strengthen regional relationships and cooperation.

While acknowledging the packed agenda facing delegates, the minister also encouraged visitors to experience Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism product, noting that the country continues to record strong visitor arrivals by air and sea throughout 2026.

“As our tourism slogan says, the beach is only the beginning,” Freeland remarked as he welcomed delegates to the twin-island nation.