Belize Airports Authority Says Proposed Passenger Security Fee Not Final

Meanwhile, the Belize Airports Authority says no final decision has been made on implementing a proposed passenger security fee, as it responds to Tropic Air’s announcement that it will withdraw scheduled service to Punta Gorda.  In a release issued today, the authority said air service to Punta Gorda was discussed at an aviation stakeholder meeting last week. Those discussions included planned upgrades to the Punta Gorda Aerodrome and security measures intended to support its operations and meet safety standards.  According to the BAA, stakeholders considered a ten-dollar security fee per ticket to help fund those improvements. Following discussions and negotiations, they agreed on a proposed phased approach: four Belize dollars per ticket starting in June 2027, with an annual increase of one dollar until the fee reaches ten dollars. The authority says that approach was designed to ease the immediate impact on travellers while funding the necessary improvements.  However, the BAA stressed that implementation has not received a final decision and consultations remain ongoing.  The authority described Tropic Air’s withdrawal as a business decision and acknowledged the concerns it creates for residents, businesses and visitors in southern Belize. It also recognized the airline’s longstanding contribution to domestic air travel.  The BAA says it will continue discussions with Tropic Air and other stakeholders to address operational concerns and identify a practical way forward. It added that it remains committed to keeping the Punta Gorda Aerodrome safe and operational, and able to support reliable air connections for southern Belize.