Published on Wednesday, February 5, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Lawmakers approved a bill aimed at reducing airfare costs between Costa Rica and Central America, a move designed to boost regional tourism, announced the Congress. 


With 34 votes in favor, Congress expedited Bill No. 24207, titled "New Low-Cost Airline Tickets Trade Between Costa Rica and Central America." The initiative, championed by Progressive Liberal Party Deputy Eli Feinzaig, seeks to lower flight ticket fees between Costa Rica and neighboring countries, including the Dominican Republic. 


Under the new law, round-trip low-cost airline tickets from Costa Rica to Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Panama, and the Dominican Republic will be capped at $126. 


One of the law’s key benefits is expanded accessibility. Increased air routes, including those to secondary and less frequented airports, will make previously hard-to-reach destinations more accessible. This change is expected to open the region to a greater number of travelers. 


"Thanks to low-cost flights, weekend trips to other countries in the region, once exclusive to high-income tourists, will now become a realistic option for more people," supporters of the bill stated. The measure is expected to drive a surge in visitor numbers. 


However, for the plan to take full effect, the destination countries must pass similar legislation allowing for matching airfare rates, officials noted. 


The newly approved bill will now be sent to President Rodrigo Chaves-Robles for his signature. If signed, it will become law upon publication in the government-owned newspaper La Gaceta.

Tourism is a key sector of Costa Rica's economy. The country welcomed over 2.6 million tourists by air in 2024, a 7% increase compared to 2023.

 

----------------
What other measures should Costa Rica take to boost tourism? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com