Las Américas Airport.-He Las Americas International AirportJosé Francisco Peña Gómez (AILA) is preparing to receive 450,000 passengers during the month of December, mostly Dominicans residing in the United States and Europe, who return to share the Christmas festivities with their families.
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The general director of Customs, Eduardo Sanz Lovatón, announced a historic increase in “Christmas Grace”, which allows Dominicans to bring gifts and items into the country without paying duty.
This year, the maximum exemption amount is raised to USD$5,000.00, 30% more than in previous yearsand will be valid until January 15, 2025, becoming the highest and most extensive in history.
“We want to thank all of you for your sacrifices and reaffirm how much we value their efforts,” said Sanz Lovatón in a message addressed to the Dominican diaspora.
The spokesperson for AERODOMLuis López indicated that the flow of passengers will increase significantly starting this week.
“We are projecting that by the end of the year around 450,000 passengers will be mobilized through the AILA. The majority will be absent Dominicans, but we also expect an increase in tourist arrivals thanks to regular and additional flights,” he noted.
Special preparations for the high season
To meet the growing demand, AILA has implemented a comprehensive plan that includes:
Remodeling and expansion of service areas in the terminal.
Hiring temporary staff to ensure a smooth experience.
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Coordination with key institutions such as the General Directorate of Customs, the General Directorate of Immigration, the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC) and the Civil Aviation Board (JAC).
Likewise, security organizations such as CESAC, POLITUR and the National Police have reinforced their operations to ensure safety and efficiency at the airport.
Increase flights
Airlines such as Iberia, Air Europa, JetBlue, Arajet, Sky High Airlines and United Airlines have increased their flights, responding to the high demand for tickets for December.
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The massive return of the diaspora energizes the local economy and strengthens family ties, in a tradition that each year has a deep cultural and social meaning for Dominicans.
Christmas grace
The exemption applies to both passengers entering the country by air and sea, as long as the goods transported do not exceed the established amount or are in commercial quantities.
The measure allows, for example, one unit of each type of appliance and is intended for families who have not visited the country for at least six months.
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This benefit is part of the vision of Luis’ government Abinaderwhich seeks to reward the economic and cultural contributions of Dominicans abroad, who maintain a strong bond with their homeland.
With these initiatives, the country is preparing to experience a historic Christmas season, marked by family warmth, the massive arrival of the diaspora and an unprecedented airport operation.
