Australia - United States 'Open Skies' Agreement

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government led air services talks with the United States in Washington on 12-14 February 2008 to negotiate a new air service framework between Australia and the United States of America.

This significant agreement will allow carriers of each country to operate between Australia and the United States, via other countries and beyond the other country to other countries without restriction on the number of services operated, the number of passengers carried, or any other restrictions on rights to carry passengers or cargo. Airlines will be able to establish fares based on commercial considerations in the marketplace.

The new agreement will formally enter into force after signature at a later date. However, in line with international practice in the area, the respective aeronautical authorities will take a liberal approach to any applications from airlines of either country to operate new services in line with the provisions of the new agreement from now.

Media Release - 15 February 2008
By the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport,
Regional Development and Local Government.

For further information, please contact:
Mr Samuel Lucas
Assistant Section Head Bilateral Aviation
Phone 02 6274 6532
Fax 02 6274 6749
Email Samuel.Lucas@infrastructure.gov.au