Singapore signs Open Skies Agreement with Iceland

Singapore and Iceland have concluded an Open Skies Agreement (OSA) under which airlines from Singapore and Iceland have full flexibility to operate air services between and beyond both countries, as well as via intermediate points, without restrictions on capacity, frequency and aircraft type.

The Singapore-Iceland OSA is also more liberal than conventional OSAs, as it allows for unlimited “hubbing rights”, also known as “7th freedom traffic rights”, for both passenger and cargo services.

Singapore carriers may utilise these rights to base its aircraft in any point in Iceland and use the point as a hub for operations to third countries, without any restriction on destination, frequency or capacity. The same applies to Icelandic carriers.

“This agreement is a reflection of the warm bilateral ties between Singapore and Iceland and underscores the commitment of both countries towards the liberalisation of air services”, said Mr Lim Kim Choon, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore. “Given the current economic downturn, it is even more imperative for governments to provide a liberal aviation framework for airlines to have full flexibility in capitalising on market opportunities.”

To date, Singapore has concluded more than 30 bilateral OSAs. As at 1 January 2009, Changi Airport is served by 83 scheduled airlines, operating more than 4,600 flights a week to 190 cities in 60 countries.

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