2009 British Columbia International Open Skies Summit
Declaration on Open Skies

2009 British Columbia
International Open Skies Summit

International air access is fundamental to global economic success. This important one-day conference played a pivotal role in developing new economic opportunities for the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan by exploring issues related to Open Skies. Canada desperately needs a national Open Skies Policy that proactively seeks Open Skies agreements with willing countries. The lack of progress on this priority is hurting every province in Canada, and costs our economy hundreds of millions in lost opportunities and thousands of jobs.

On Friday, September 25th, B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell brought together government leaders and consular officials from around the world; business leaders from various economic sectors including tourism; aviation leaders from Canadian and foreign airlines and the airport community; and academics specializing in international aviation to explore issues and opportunities related to Open Skies.

This Summit promoted the economic benefits of Open Skies and increased awareness for the public and business community. Additional objectives of the Summit included having Canada extend the Transit without Visa program to Chinese nationals, extending duty free purchasing to passengers arriving into Canada and achieving more Open Skies for cargo.