Winair proudly hosted the Regional Aviation, Border Interconnectivity Conference (RABIC), on November 4, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in regional cooperation among airlines, airports, immigration, and customs authorities across the Caribbean.
This first-of-its-kind initiative brought together leaders from regional airlines — including Winair, Sunrise Airways, LIAT Air, Inter-Caribbean Airways, and Caribbean Airlines — along with airport authorities, immigration, and customs agencies. The aim: to open a new dialogue on harmonizing border procedures and fostering collaboration across the region’s aviation ecosystem.
Uniting the Region
Key participants included representatives from St. Maarten, Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA), the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Barbados, all united under a shared mission to create a seamless, efficient, and passenger-friendly Caribbean travel experience.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in Caribbean aviation cooperation,” said Mr. Hans Van de Velde, CEO of Winair. “By bringing together those who manage our borders, our airlines, and our airports, we are taking the first step toward a more connected, efficient, and traveler-centric region.”
The conference opened with remarks from Hon. Nathalie Tackling, Minister of Justice of St. Maarten, who welcomed delegates and highlighted the importance of collaboration in shaping the future of Caribbean travel.
Key Discussions
Throughout the day, sessions centered on:
Harmonizing border and passenger processing across jurisdictions
Strengthening communication and coordination between stakeholders
Building frameworks for sustainable inter-island connectivity
Exploring digital and operational innovations for aviation and customs
Participants agreed that true regional growth in tourism and trade can only be achieved through partnership, alignment, and shared vision.
A Step Forward for the Caribbean
The success of RABIC reflects Winair’s commitment to leadership, collaboration, and innovation in Caribbean aviation.
This inaugural event laid the foundation for ongoing annual cooperation, bringing together policymakers, airport leaders, and aviation partners to advance the shared goal of seamless Caribbean travel – one region, one sky.
