FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, September 21, 2000
Contact: Bill Mosley
Tel.: (202) 366-5571
DOT 176-00

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) today granted Delta Air Lines the right to operate seven weekly flights between Atlanta and Bogota, Colombia, implementing a provision of the newly liberalized U.S.-Colombia bilateral aviation agreement that was negotiated earlier this year and expanded aviation rights between the United States and Colombia.

"President Clinton and Vice President Gore have opened more markets and created more opportunities for U.S. goods and services. This administration has also increased air service more than in any comparable period in U.S. aviation history, enabling passengers and shippers to enjoy more frequent service and lower fares," Secretary Slater said. "With today’s action we establish direct service to Colombia -- our third-largest aviation partner in South America -- from a new U.S. city, and also add a new carrier to the U.S.-Colombia market, thereby enhancing competition and providing convenient service for more passengers."

Today’s order makes final the department’s tentative decision of July 14.

Continental Airlines, which already serves Bogota, Colombia, from Newark, N.J., and Houston, also applied for the seven flights, proposing daily service between Houston and Cali. In today’s decision, DOT said that authorizing a new U.S. carrier for U.S.-Colombia service will provide the opportunity to develop the market, enhance competition and expand the service options available. In addition, Delta’s service will benefit local passengers flying between Atlanta and Colombia as well as provide convenient connecting service.

The U.S.-Colombia market had long been limited to service from only two U.S. carriers, Continental and American Airlines. Thus, this action represents the first opportunity in many years for the public to secure the competitive benefits from service by a new U.S.-carrier entrant.

Delta must begin the new service within 120 days. The department granted Continental backup authority, which would authorize the carrier to operate its proposed flights if Delta does not begin its service.

The final order may be obtained via the Internet at http:\\dms.dot.gov, docket number OST-2000-7655.

Briefing Room