Air travel offers a quick journey to the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic, located on the island of Hispaniola, has several international airports serviced by many different airlines. The country has an area of about 18,000 square miles (48,442 square kilometers) which is larger than Jamaica, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands combined.

Las Américas International Airport is nearest to the capital city, Santo Domingo, which is located on its southern coast. International Gregorio Luperon Airport, Punta Cana International Airport, La Romana Casa de Campo International Airport, and Cibao International Airport also receive the most international airline traffic. Since the island is so large, be sure to research the location of your final destination in order to ensure that you fly into a nearby airport.

Travelers from North American cities such as New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Ft. Lauderdale will find direct flights to the Dominican Republic. Direct flights from Miami only take about and hour and a half flying time.  Vacationers from Europe have an average flying time of eight hours, but some may have stop- overs in a U.S. hub airport before proceeding onward.

Assertive porters may attempt to help you with your bags when you arrive at a Dominican Republic airport.  If you decide to have a porter help you, consider tipping him a dollar or two per bag. As at any airport, do not leave luggage unattended as theft may occur.

Taxis can be found at airports, but passengers are cautioned of suspicious or unmarked vehicles. It is best to utilize airport authorized taxi service.  Avoid taxis without air conditioning as thefts have been reported through open windows when the vehicles stops in traffic for stop lights.  Safeguard your purse or anything that can be grabbed.  An easy and safe option is to arrange transportation from the airport with your resort hotel before your arrival.

Most airline passengers entering the Dominican Republic will be required to purchase a $10(USD) tourist card and will need a passport and proof of future departure. The departure tax for air travel is $20(USD).

Some airlines from North America include:

800-772-7117

877-USA-3000

Some airlines from Europe include:

800-524-6975

http://www.condor.com

800-772-4642

http://www.iberia.com
In the Dominican Republic: 
809-508-0288

866-434-0320

http://www.klm.com

800-645-3880

http://www.lufthansa.com

800-627-8462

http://www.martinair.com

844-209-7777

http://www.virgin-atlantic.com

The phone numbers for the main airports are:

Las Americas International:   809-549-0450

Puerto Plata International:  809-586-0107

Punta Cana International:  809-668-4749

La Romana/Casa de Camp International:  809-556-5565

Safety and Security Concerns

Registering with the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo through the State Department's travel registration web site is encouraged.  Foreign tourists should keep a low profile as they are often considered attractive targets for crime.  Carry cellular phones in a pocket; avoid headphones; limit displaying jewelry; and credit cards and a limited amount of cash should be carried on your person.

U.S. citizens are required to have a U.S. passport enter the Dominican Republic and to reenter the United States. This will also ensure that your departure from the Dominican Republic goes smoothly.  Be sure to have photocopies of your passport, drivers license and credit card numbers.

The U.S. Embassy recommends that any minor traveling to the Dominican Republic without one or both parents have a notarized document from the parent(s). In addition to clarifying the reason for travel, this will facilitate departure from the Dominican Republic.  Check with the airline and with the Embassy for further assurances.

With so many airlines throughout Europe and North America providing frequent service to the Dominican Republic, travelers may wish to fly with airlines that they are familiar with and trust. Travelers considering a flight with an airline on which they have never flown can consult the rankings and evaluations of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration for information concerning performance and safety. To contact the FAA and related services, use the information below:

Whether taking a commercial or charter jet, passengers should confirm their flight numbers and times of departure  two or three days in advance of the flight. Travelers should also consider arriving at the airport two hours in advance, as lines and baggage inspections will generally slow your progression to the gate. If you have secured an electronic ticket, using an electronic ticket kiosk will allow you to avoid some of the long lines. When moving through the lines, your passport and boarding pass will be checked at several points. Always keep these items in an accessible and secure place so you can produce them quickly when asked.

Baggage screening of both checked and carry-on baggage generally cause the greatest delays in the airport. Here are a few tips for helping to ensure that both you and your baggage make it through without hassle.

• Become familiar with the Transportation Security Administration's list of prohibited items. Items such as razors and other sharp objects are prohibited on board an aircraft. Consult the Transportation Security Administration Web site (http://www.tsa.gov/public ) for a full list of these items, or call 866-289-9673 for other questions.

• While some items are strictly prohibited, certain permitted items can slow your progress through baggage screening. Metallic items like jewelry, belt buckles, shoes and boots must be removed when moving through the baggage screening area, as they are likely to set off metal detectors. You will also be asked to remove hats, jackets, and other outerwear and put them on the screening belt. Keys, computers, camcorders, cellular phones and other personal devices must also be placed on the belt for screening. Valuables can be placed in the bins provided by the airport.

• Carry-on baggage is limited to one carry-on bag and one personal item, which is generally considered to be a purse, briefcase, or laptop case. Liquids aerosols and gel toiletries are allowed in 3.4 ounce bottles, or less.  They need to be placed in a one quart or smaller sized clear plastic bag and placed on the screening belt.

• Consult airline officials if you have any questions of items contained in your checked baggage. Some types of food can set off bomb detection devices. Gifts in both checked baggage and carry-on baggage should be unwrapped, as airline officials may unwrap them should they conduct a search of your bag.

It is recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date regulations regarding carry-on luggage, including specific weight and size limitations.  Some airlines impose extra fees for items which exceed the requirements.

• Passengers with metal surgical implants that could set off metal detection devices should have a signed doctor's note, and may also wish to contact airport security officials.

Even when taking time for extra preparations and precautions, flying remains the fastest and most convenient way to reach your destination in the Dominican Republic.

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