Aviation leaders from Bolivia and Paraguay take decisive step toward Open Skies

In a significant milestone for regional air connectivity, Bolivia and Paraguay have taken solid steps toward updating and eventually implementing an Open Skies agreement designed to liberalize and boost bilateral air transport.

On January 27, 2026, specialists from Bolivia’s General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) and Paraguay’s National Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DINAC) met in La Paz to review and lay the groundwork for a new Bilateral Air Services Agreement that, with a more ambitious vision, aims to incorporate Open Skies principles.

The intention is to replace current operational restrictions with a more flexible framework that promotes free competition among airlines, a broader range of routes, new flight frequencies, and better options for passengers and operators.

During the working sessions, technical teams focused on analyzing clauses in the existing treaty and defining cooperation and coordination mechanisms to support a model of progressive liberalization. The dialogue included technical, logistical, and regulatory aspects aimed at allowing airlines from both countries to operate with fewer limitations, which could help attract new international operators and increase connectivity between Bolivia and Paraguay in the future.

The concept of Open Skies refers to bilateral or multilateral agreements in which nations reduce limits on routes, capacities, frequencies, and fares, fostering a competitive environment that benefits both airlines and consumers.

Currently, air connectivity between Bolivia and Paraguay is relatively limited, with only three weekly flights operated by BoA (Boliviana de Aviación) and six Paranair frequencies on the route between Asunción and Santa Cruz de la Sierra. This new progress in the negotiation seeks to overcome those constraints, enabling other airlines to explore the route and meet growing demand from travelers and cargo operations.

Aviation authorities from both countries have stated that the central goal of these efforts is not just to expand the number of available flights but also to ensure that the agreement’s benefits translate into greater opportunities for end users. This includes improving air transport productivity, generating economies of scale, stimulating tourism, and promoting trade between Bolivia, Paraguay, and other connected destinations.

Industry analysts emphasize that agreements of this kind could energize South America’s air transport markets by attracting investment and strengthening both countries’ positions as strategic nodes in regional connection corridors. Likewise, an Open Skies framework could encourage foreign airlines to enter the market, interested in operating without the barriers typical of traditional air service agreements.

Although the proposed amendments to the Bilateral Air Services Agreement still need to be formalized and ratified, the signs of progress reflect shared political and technical will from both governments to enhance infrastructure and competitiveness in air transport. This process could also set a precedent for future negotiations with other interested countries in the region.

With this strategic step, Bolivia and Paraguay are seeking not only to modernize their relationship in air transport matters but also to position themselves as key players in a regional market that demands greater connectivity, more accessible travel options, and a more dynamic environment for airlines operating between South America and other continents.