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On Friday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne made an announcement that is set to be a game-changer for the Caribbean’s aviation industry.
The Prime Minister pledged a significant financial commitment of $30 million from the 2024 budget to revitalize LIAT 2020 Ltd, which is a significant step towards the revival of the struggling airline.
The challenges faced by LIAT in 2023 were numerous and formidable. Unsuitable aircraft, unresolved issues with former workers, financial constraints, and staff attrition were just a few of the hurdles.
Despite these challenges, the airline managed to operate a limited schedule, ensuring crucial connectivity between destinations with a dedicated team of just 167 staff
The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to restructuring and resurrecting LIAT, recognizing its historical significance as a cornerstone of Caribbean connectivity.
The vision extends beyond national borders, with several regional governments expressing interest in partnering with Antigua and Barbuda to contribute to the revival of LIAT.
The government’s collaborative efforts aim to pave the way for finalizing an agreement with Air Peace, a crucial step towards the recommencement of LIAT 2020 operations.
To this end, the Caribbean Development Bank will play a pivotal role in solidifying the partnership and arrangements among regional governments.
As part of the government’s efforts to revive LIAT, the Prime Minister announced that $30 million will be allocated from the 2024 budget to ensure that LIAT 2020 Ltd has all the necessary aircraft, maintenance, and operational arrangements in place.
The goal is to establish a foundation for the safe, reliable, and efficient delivery of services to the people of the region.
The significant financial injection underscores the government’s dedication to overcoming the challenges faced by LIAT and reaffirms its commitment to restoring a vital lifeline for regional travel.
This announcement is a pivotal moment in the effort to revive the beleaguered airline and is sure to have a positive impact on Caribbean connectivity.
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