WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s decision to formally establish its civil aviation authority is not only a legal reform, but also an important step for the island’s future air connectivity, tourism growth and international aviation reputation.
The Establishment Decree for the Curaçao Civil Aviation Authority was published on June 19, formally placing the authority within the structure of the Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning. The authority had been operating since 2010, but until now lacked a formal legal basis.
The reform comes at a time when air access is increasingly important for Curaçao’s economy. Tourism growth, new route development, regional connectivity and possible long-haul opportunities all depend on a strong aviation oversight system that is trusted internationally.
Curaçao has remained in FAA Category 2 since 2012. That classification restricts the ability of Curaçao-based airlines to open new routes to the United States. It also affects code-share possibilities with U.S. airlines. While the rating does not mean that travel to Curaçao is unsafe, it does signal that the country’s aviation oversight system does not yet fully meet ICAO standards.
For Curaçao, this matters because aviation is one of the main gateways to economic development. The island’s tourism sector depends on reliable air service from North America, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. Strong oversight is also important for investor confidence, airport development and the credibility of any future local airline operations.
The new decree gives the aviation authority responsibility for oversight of airlines, aircraft, aircraft maintenance, airports, air navigation services, licensing of aviation personnel, security and dangerous goods. It also allows the authority to advise the minister on sanctions and, if properly mandated, to take enforcement action.
However, the reform is not complete. The government is still preparing a new Aviation Ordinance and additional regulations. These are expected to cover key areas such as air transport, airport operations, navigation services, aviation security and safety management.
The remaining process could take until the end of 2027. Only after that will Curaçao be in a stronger position to seek reassessment and demonstrate that it meets the international standards required for a return to FAA Category 1.
The aviation sector will be watching closely. A successful reform could eventually remove restrictions on local carriers seeking to expand to the United States and strengthen Curaçao’s position as a serious aviation jurisdiction.
But the publication of the decree is only the beginning of the final phase. The true test will be whether the CBA receives the resources, independence and enforcement authority needed to function as a modern aviation regulator.
For Curaçao, the stakes are high. Restoring confidence in aviation oversight is not just about compliance. It is about protecting the island’s connectivity, supporting tourism and ensuring that Curaçao can compete in a region where air access remains essential to economic growth.