CDB backs efforts to boost regional air travel

CDB’s acting President, Isaac Solomon

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The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is supporting the efforts to enhance intra-regional travel following the collapse of LIAT 1974.

Even though the bank has not yet commented on the talks it is having with the Antigua and Barbuda government regarding LIAT 2020, CDB’s acting President, Isaac Solomon, revealed during a press conference in Barbados that air transport is an essential factor for the Caribbean’s progress.

Recently, Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne disclosed that negotiations between CDB and the government on the sale of aircraft had ended, and all governments holding shares in LIAT have agreed to sell them to LIAT 2020.

Mr. Solomon emphasized that CDB is willing to assist in resolving the air transportation limitations that impact the Caribbean.

He also encouraged the growing number of private actors who have entered the space as part of the Covid-19 recovery.

He recalled the difficulties experienced in the past when traveling from one part of the region to another, stating that it was no fun to have a meeting in St. Kitts and have to travel to Barbados and then to Miami.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda held a crucial meeting to discuss the matter of LIAT (2020) Ltd on Wednesday

During the meeting, all members were thoroughly briefed about the agreement to acquire LIAT (1974) Ltd. aircraft.

According to notes from today’s Cabinet, the first aircraft will be purchased for USD 4.1 million dollars.

This purchase will enable LIAT (2020) Ltd to fulfill a critical condition required to obtain an Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

Moreover, an additional USD12.1 million will be utilized to procure three more aircraft. Within the next 60 days, LIAT (2020) Ltd. is expected to start operating flights.