Tarija Private Sector, Governorate Demand BoA Restore Air Connectivity amid Flight Shortages

The private sector and the Tarija Governorate are urgently demanding that Bolivian Aviation (BoA) re-establish air connectivity to the southern region of the country. Business leaders and tourism stakeholders are worried about the limited availability of flights and high ticket prices, which they say directly affect visitor numbers and the operations of hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. For over three months, BoA has not provided a satisfactory response to these concerns.

Franz Molina, president of the Federation of Private Entrepreneurs of Tarija (FEPT), emphasized that the demand is for minimum conditions to reactivate the regional economy, create jobs, and foster development, not for special privileges. He suggested exploring temporary measures to reduce operating costs for routes to Tarija, including potential fuel supply and compensation alternatives.

To improve flight frequency and ticket availability at accessible prices, the private sector proposed reinstating direct flights between Tarija and Santa Cruz, as well as Tarija and La Paz. They also suggested forming a dedicated Connectivity and Competitiveness Committee for Tarija, involving relevant institutions and sectors. The group has given BoA a 72-hour deadline to present a concrete plan to resolve the connectivity issues.

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We are not asking for privileges, we are demanding minimum conditions for this region, to reactivate the economy, jobs, businesses, and the capacity to generate development.