A JAMAICAN delegation headed by Noel Hylton, chairman of the Air Policy Committee, recently secured the first air services agreement with Spain, after meeting with Spanish counterparts in Madrid.

The move is considered critical to facilitate the rapid Spanish expansion into the Jamaican tourist industry.

Under the accord, provision has been made for multiple designation of European Union (EU) carriers into Jamaica.

Requirements completed

The principal terms of the proposed air services agreement will be provisionally applied until both countries have completed the respective constitutional require-ments, at which time the agreement will be signed and given full force.

Transport and Works Minister Mike Henry said the agreement was a vital breakthrough in Jamaica's air policy initiatives on the European continent.

This deal, he said, would foster significant economic and cultural benefits for the island.

"The Spanish are already demonstrating keen interest in doing business here in Jamaica, and the agreement will foster much greater exchange in this direction, with expanded air travel between both countries, including in the very important tourism market," Henry added.