What do "open skies" agreements allow airlines to do?

"Open skies" agreements are treaties between countries that allow airlines to operate freely between the two nations with fewer restrictions compared to traditional bilateral agreements. The primary feature of such agreements is that they enable airlines from both countries to fly between any points, meaning they can operate routes from any point in one country to any point in another. This promotes competition, increases service options, and stimulates demand for air travel.

The option that mentions operating between any point in one country and any point in another accurately reflects the essence of open skies agreements. It allows for greater flexibility in scheduling and route selection, making it an effective tool for liberalizing air travel.

In contrast, the other options specify limitations that contradict the principles of open skies agreements. For instance, operating exclusively between major cities implies a restriction on routes that is not characteristic of open skies policies. Similarly, charging any fare without restrictions is not entirely covered under these agreements, as airlines may still operate under certain regulatory fare frameworks. Lastly, limiting international routes to specific destinations is contrary to the very purpose of open skies agreements, which seek to maximize the number of routes and destinations serviced.