U.S., St. Christopher and Nevis enter open skies

   The United States and St. Christopher and Nevis signed an open skies aviation agreement that will liberalize air services for the carriers of both countries.
   “This agreement means the travelers, airlines and economies of both the United States and St. Christopher and Nevis will benefit from competitive pricing and more convenient service,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, in a statement.
   Previously, aviation relations between the two countries were governed by Bermuda 2, the former aviation agreement between the United States and United Kingdom which restricted route rights and pricing. Under the Open-Skies agreement, the airlines of both countries will be able to fly to, from and beyond the other’s territory, without restriction on how often carriers fly, the kind of aircraft they use and the prices they charge.
   The U.S. Transportation Department said the new opportunities are available immediately. The agreement makes St. Christopher and Nevis the 104th U.S. open skies partner.