LIAT 2020 Inaugurates service with first flight from Antigua to Saint Lucia

LIAT 2020 successfully launches its inaugural flight from Antigua and Barbuda to Saint Lucia on Tuesday. The launch of the airline took place with the ribbon-cutting ceremony and marked its return to the skies.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston Browne expressed excitement on the launch of the aircraft and called it a “momentous occasion.” The Prime Minister stated that these new flights would play a huge role in enhancing the aviation sector of the Caribbean region and improving its overall regional connectivity.

While shedding light on the services, being offered by the airline, PM Shared that initially it would operate three times in a week, connecting Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Lucia and Barbados. The Prime Minister continued by adding that he is extremely pleased to be participating in this ceremony following the difficulties they faced with LIAT 1974, four years ago.

Notably, LIAT 1974 went bankrupt in January and therefore, the new entity has been formed in partnership with Air Peace. Air Peace is a Nigerian airline which was formed in 2013 and promises to enhance air connectivity in the Caribbean region.

The Prime Minister called it a great story of courage, patience and resilience. He continued to say that this is a message to all of them that notwithstanding the challenges they should always press on with determination, with optimism, knowing that invariably there is a brighter future for those who have the courage and resilience to fight whatever obstacles are placed in their way.

Moreover, the Prime Minister Browne talked about the benefits that can be availed with this new flight services. He stated that the flight services of LIAT 2020 would play a crucial role in becoming the economic contributor for the Caribbean region. He stated that it would create several jobs as well as airport taxes will also be collected with a vision to improve their tourism product.

For the same, PM Browne shared that he is confident that LIAT would be a significant economic contributor to the economy of Antigua and Barbuda. And, his government is committed to the sustainability and viability of LIAT.

Moreover, the Minister of Tourism and Aviation, Charles Max Fernandez also shared his views on the ceremony and stated that LIAT has always been an important stakeholder in their regional integration and travel. He further asserted that “LIAT is an integral part of the Caribbean and no matter how hard they had beaten up on LIAT through the years at the end of the day LIAT has always been there for all of us.”

The Chief Executive Officer of LIAT 2020, Hafsah Abdulsalam shared that the airline would play a huge role in the future development of the regional integration and movement. She shared that this inaugural flight is a testament to their hard work and determination towards fighting against all the odds and representing a significant milestone in their journey flying the Caribbean people and beyond.