THE HAGUE – The Dutch government has decided to remain a shareholder in Dutch Caribbean Air Navigation Service Provider (DC-ANSP) for the time being, citing concerns that selling its stake could lead to higher airline ticket prices to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom.
In a letter to the Dutch Parliament, the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management explained that while an evaluation concluded that state ownership is not strictly necessary to safeguard public interests, potential financial and operational risks make an immediate sale undesirable.
DC-ANSP is responsible for air traffic control over parts of the Caribbean region, including Curaçao and Bonaire. The Netherlands has held a 7.95 percent stake in the organization since the constitutional reforms of 2010.
The evaluation found no legal or practical barriers to selling this stake to the other shareholders, Curaçao and Sint Maarten. It also noted that the Dutch government’s influence is limited, as its minority position does not allow it to enforce decisive control over company decisions.
Despite this, the cabinet identified several risks linked to a potential sale. One key concern is that Curaçao and Sint Maarten have expressed interest in increasing dividend payouts. According to the report, this could reduce funds available for investment in infrastructure and operations.
Such a development could lead to higher air traffic service fees, which airlines may pass on to passengers through increased ticket prices. This is seen as a particular concern for the accessibility of Bonaire, where connectivity is already sensitive to cost increases.
In addition to affordability, the Dutch government also values maintaining insight into the company’s operations. By remaining a shareholder, the Netherlands retains a seat at the table, even if its formal influence remains limited.
The cabinet indicated that further analysis is needed to determine whether selling the stake would be proportionate and whether the identified risks can be sufficiently mitigated. A final decision on the future of the shareholding will be made after that assessment.