Bermuda's airport administrators left an international conference this week brimming with confidence after getting glowing praise from US Department of Transport officials.

Transport Minister Ewart Brown secured US Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater's promise to help in publicising Bermuda's newly won right to negotiate charter flights on its own without UK Government input.

Also discussed was Bermuda's intent to increase air linkages to the US and Europe and to have Reagan International Airport (formerly Washington National Airport) as a gateway airport.

Dr. Brown explained the increased role of travel by locals and the international business community factors into how air routes to and from Bermuda are to be negotiated.

When asked about the direction of civil aviation in the Island, Dr. Brown said: "In terms of aviation, I think we have entered a new era in terms of self governance.

"This will set an intensification in charter flights as a result of the relaxation of rules set down by the UK,'' he added. "It allows us more room for additional charters. I'm sure the Minister of Tourism will welcome that.'' Led Dr. Brown, Ministry Permanent Secretary Herman Tucker and Director of Civil Aviation Ian McIntyre met with their counterparts from around the world in Washington DC.

"One of the highlights of the International Transportation Symposium held this week,'' Dr. Brown said, "was the Secretary, Mr. Slater and his staff praising the Bermuda Department of Civil Aviation for setting the standard in this region.

"It showed that Bermuda International Airport is run the way an airport of this size should be run,'' Dr. Brown added. "We were recognised for being on the top of the standards.

"We stand out in the region for being compliant whenever we are examined.

That is a tribute to the former Director, Mr. Tucker, and Mr. McIntyre.'' Photo provided by Government Information Services Building bridges: Transport Minister Ewart Brown met this week with US Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater in Washington, DC.