The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has signed an agreement with several Latin American airlines aimed at preventing illegal migration to the United States. This initiative responds to a call from the U.S. Department of State, through Deputy Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian A. Nichols, who described the agreement as a crucial step toward promoting safe and orderly migration.
Among the companies involved are Aerolíneas Argentinas, Bahamasair, Aeroméxico, Avianca, Caribbean Airlines, LATAM, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris. These airlines, under the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, have committed to adapting their operations according to international regulations and cooperating closely with governments and international entities to address the issue of irregular migration.
The agreement emerged following the Ministerial Meeting of the Americas held last week in Guatemala. It has been the catalyst for member states in the hemisphere to implement more stringent policies on migration. This includes the potential for imposing fines and visa restrictions on airlines that fail to adequately control the use of their travel networks for unauthorized migrations.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced sanctions in "response to the ongoing repression of the Nicaraguan people and the exploitation of vulnerable migrants by the Ortega-Murillo regime, including the facilitation and benefit of irregular migration to the United States."
Recently, headlines were made when a Conviasa plane flying from Managua to Caracas had only one passenger on board. Many social media users highlighted how the migration route through Nicaragua is one of the most well-known and expensive by air. Return flights are almost empty, but they maintain a regular schedule, indicating profitability for the mentioned company.
In recent months, the U.S. government has intensified actions to combat illegal migration, announcing sanctions against charter flight operators that facilitate such movements. These measures have directly impacted the reduction of flights connecting destinations like Cuba and Nicaragua, which are frequently used by migrants to reach the United States.
As airlines adapt to new requirements, migration in Latin America continues to evolve, testing the capacity of governments and businesses to manage their borders effectively and humanely.
Key Questions on U.S. Measures Against Illegal Migration
As the U.S. government and Latin American airlines take steps to prevent illegal migration, several key questions arise about the implications and enforcement of these measures.
What prompted the IATA agreement with Latin American airlines?
The agreement was prompted by a call from the U.S. Department of State, aiming to promote safe and orderly migration.
Which airlines are involved in the agreement?
The airlines involved include Aerolíneas Argentinas, Bahamasair, Aeroméxico, Avianca, Caribbean Airlines, LATAM, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris.
How might airlines be penalized under the new agreement?
Airlines may face fines and visa restrictions if they fail to control unauthorized migrations adequately.
What impact have U.S. sanctions had on flight connections in Latin America?
U.S. sanctions have led to a reduction in flights connecting destinations like Cuba and Nicaragua, which are commonly used by migrants.