Collado in talks with ITA Airways over Italy-Punta Cana flights
The Dominican Tourism Ministry, led by David Collado, is holding talks with ITA Airways to open a direct route between Italy and Punta Cana. The Italian carrier had already signalled its intention to operate in the country from November 30, 2026, according to Arecoa.
Italy is one of the European source markets that has grown fastest toward the Caribbean in recent years, and a direct connection to Punta Cana would cut reliance on stopovers in Madrid, Lisbon or Paris. For the Italian market, a nonstop flight is a selling point that drives purchase decisions in high season. MITUR's push aims to lock in that flow before the next European season kicks off.
The read for the industry is clear: every new direct route from Europe widens the base of source markets and gives hotels in the eastern zone room to adjust rates and occupancy. It is worth tracking the official confirmation of frequencies and capacity, because that is what will determine the real impact on arrivals.
Quick questions
What is Collado negotiating with ITA Airways for Punta Cana?
When could ITA Airways start flying to the Dominican Republic?
Why does a direct flight from Italy matter for Punta Cana?
What does Dominican tourism gain from more direct routes from Europe?
What is still missing to confirm ITA Airways' route to Punta Cana?
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