We spoke exclusively with Peter Cerda, VP de THERE IT IS for the Americas on the current situation of aviation in Ecuador due to the loss of routes and airlines.
In a global and regional scenario that presents constant challenges for the airline industry, Ecuador has faced its own share of turbulence. Despite the departure of some airlines and the pessimism that sometimes accompanies this news, reality is more nuanced. To understand the true pulse of air connectivity in the country, We spoke with Peter Cerdá, Regional VP de THERE IT IS for the Americas, who offered us a balanced and optimistic vision about the future of the sector in Ecuador.
Arajet leaves us in November, Wingo he left months ago, JetBlue stopped flying Quito, Aeromexico has not yet returned and others like Spirit that stopped flying to Guayaquil and although each one has been different cases, Connectivity and options in the country are declining.
Connectivity drops in Ecuador, but not everything is so bad
Cerdá began by emphasizing that, despite the adversities, Ecuador "He has done his homework for the last five years". This translates into a country that has focused on tourism, has sought to create more connectivity and has become more competitive and open. He recognized the negative impact of certain "issues" (referring to the socioeconomic situation), but he highlighted the priority that the current government gives to tourism and transportation in its agenda. «The sector is closely related to the Ministry of Tourism. We are working together, We work very closely with the two airport operators,» pointed out, highlighting collaboration.
The departure of airlines such as Spirit and JetBlue has generated concern, but Cerdá broke down the reasons behind these decisions, and not all of them point directly to the destination Ecuador. He mentioned the global problem of lack of aircraft due to delays in delivery from manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus, as well as problems with specific engines that have taken aircraft out of service. "The socioeconomic combination of the country and the issue of the sector has contributed a little" to the situation, explained.
To the question of what can be done to motivate airlines once the crisis is over, Cerdá was clear: "follow the same path." The government's policies and agenda to "promote the country and continue to encourage the industry to return" are on track. Highlighted an often underestimated point: «There is more visibility when we lose an international line and we do not realize that we really lose something, but we are winning in another area.”
He referred to the strengthening of the offer of airlines such as LATAM and Avianca, that have been increasing their frequencies. What's more, highlighted the important role of companies based on Ecuador, that are focusing on domestic and international connectivity. «It is always a bit of pride to have many international companies, but the important thing is to have connectivity,» stated, emphasizing that what is crucial is “to have a wide network from the country to other parts of the region,» both interregional and to North America and Europe.
Airport cost: One factor, but not the sole determinant
A recurring point of concern in Ecuador has been the high cost of airport taxes. Cerdá did not deny its impact, but he qualified his role: «I don't think it is the determining reason… At least right now." In his analysis, The airlines that left the market did not do so "so much because of the airport cost factor", but because of the competition in those markets and the opportunity to deploy their aircraft in destinations with greater profitability and better utilization., especially in a context of global aircraft shortage. a flight of 5 O 6 hours from Ecuador means that the plane is idle for half the day for that route, while domestically it could make three or four flights, generating greater efficiency and profitability.
The resilience of the Ecuadorian market is key. Cerdá stressed that air traffic has not suffered a significant drop, meaning passengers who previously flew with airlines that left, They have simply migrated to other options. «When a company leaves and the route they served is left with the risk of being abandoned. But in the cases we have seen it has not remained, "There has been another line that has entered to serve that market." This has been seen on the route to Fort Lauderdale (covered by Avianca to Miami since October) and in the increase in flights to Miami by LATAM and the beginning of routes to New York.
In summary, Peter Cerdá painted a picture of an Ecuadorian air sector that, despite the bumps, "He's on the right track." It has good airports and operators, strong regional connectivity, toward USA and Europe. Air cargo continues to increase, and the tourism sector is growing. «It is an attractive market,» concluded, asking for “a little patience” while the adverse factors are corrected.
What do you think about Peter Cerdá's vision of aviation in Ecuador?? Have you felt that connectivity has been maintained despite the changes?
✈️ Exclusive Benefits for Readers
Search here for hotels ALL over the world at the best price.
