By Breaking Belize News Staff: Prime Minister John Briceño has defended his government’s decision to commit approximately US$2 million in financial guarantees to secure direct air service between Europe and Belize, arguing that the country had little choice if it wanted to attract the airline.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Briceño was asked whether he was comfortable with the financial commitment associated with the agreement with Discover Airlines.
“That’s the rule of the game,” the Prime Minister responded.
He explained that the airline would not have agreed to introduce the service without the government’s commitment.
“They would not come if we don’t sign on to it,” Briceño said, arguing that Belize must weigh the cost of attracting the airline against the economic opportunities the route could generate.
Tourism Minister Anthony Mahler previously confirmed that the arrangement involves approximately US$2 million over three years, with the guarantee intended to reduce the airline’s financial exposure as it introduces the new destination.
The arrangement is understood to be a revenue guarantee, rather than a straightforward payment for the airline to operate flights.
Briceño expressed confidence that the resulting increase in European visitors would ultimately justify the government’s investment.
Discover Airlines, part of the Lufthansa Group, has officially announced that its Frankfurt-to-Belize service will begin December 16, 2027, operating twice weekly through mid-April 2028.
The government is banking on increased visitor spending, tourism employment and access to the European market to offset the potential cost of the guarantee.
However, the amount Belize will ultimately be required to pay under the arrangement will depend on the agreement’s terms and the airline’s financial performance.
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