WILLEMSTAD – Concerns over dividend payouts are emerging as a key issue in discussions about the future ownership of the Dutch Caribbean Air Navigation Service Provider (DC ANSP), the region’s air navigation service provider.
According to a recent evaluation, Curaçao and Sint Maarten have pushed for dividend distributions, which could conflict with the organization’s core objective of maintaining affordable air traffic services.
The report warns that prioritizing profit distribution could reduce funds available for investments in safety and operational improvements. It may also lead to higher air traffic service fees, potentially increasing airline costs and ticket prices.
Such developments could negatively affect the accessibility of Bonaire, where maintaining affordable air connections is considered a public priority.
The Dutch government, which has advocated for keeping tariffs low, has limited influence due to its minority stake and has already seen its position overridden in past dividend decisions.