El Salvador has successfully doubled the number of its international air agreements over the past four years, significantly strengthening its economic, logistical, and tourism ties with key countries. A total of 15 agreements have now been signed, with seven of them finalized during the current administration of President Nayib Bukele. The latest agreement, ratified by the Legislative Assembly, is with Costa Rica.
According to Eduardo García, Director of Economic Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, these air agreements have been instrumental in enhancing the country’s connectivity with nations such as the United States, Spain, the United Kingdom, Colombia, Ecuador, and many others. García attributed the success to the government’s robust foreign policy and strong bilateral relations, which have facilitated the signing of these agreements.
“In just the 2021-2024 administration, we achieved the signing of seven agreements,” García said. “This reflects the coordination between the Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the diplomatic efforts being made at the international level.”
The countries with which El Salvador has signed air agreements include the United States, Mexico, Ecuador, Colombia, Cuba, Chile, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Panama, Qatar, Canada, Brazil, and Uruguay. These agreements are designed to improve air connectivity, promote tourism, and enhance cargo transportation, further benefiting Salvadorans and international business operations.
Patricia Aguilera Bran, Director of Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to expand international air services while making them more efficient and competitive.
The recent ratification of the air agreement with Costa Rica, signed in November 2024 during President Bukele’s visit to San José, highlights El Salvador’s continued commitment to regional progress and security. Ana Figueroa, President of the Commission of Salvadorans Abroad, Legislation, and Government, celebrated the agreement’s potential to attract more international tourists and boost security in the aviation sector.
“This agreement will guarantee aviation security, which is crucial as our country continues to attract more tourists thanks to the security climate we now enjoy,” Figueroa stated.
The increased number of air agreements positions El Salvador as a growing hub for international travel and trade, offering substantial benefits for both local and foreign stakeholders.
