The new airline Air Dominicana will begin operations in May with flights to the United States, Mexico and South America, to later expand to other destinations, in what government officials and business leaders say it’s vital for the growth of tourism. Tourism minister Felix Jimenez said recently the arrival of first airplane, a Boeing 737 with a capacity of 180 passengers, is expected for April, whereas for yearend will arrive two others, a Boeing 737 and 767, to cover European routes. The executive vice president of the hotels association (ASONAHORES), Arturo Villanueva, said Air Dominicana will contribute to remarkably diversify the tourism offer and to increase the number of visitors. According to the magazine Mercado, foreign investors own 47 percent of the new carrier’s shares, the State has 30 percent, and local investors 23 percent. |