Issues encountered with the landing gear of one of LIAT 2020 airplanes will be rectified this week and test flights will continue

Prime Minister Gaston Browne confirmed that the airline had to replace its faulty landing gear with new equipment to meet the requirements necessary for obtaining the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC).

The Antiguan and Barbudan government has since procured the necessary equipment, and once the landing gear parts are installed, the test flights will resume this week.

Meanwhile, the government has placed USD$12.1 million in an escrow account to purchase two additional planes.

The Prime Minister confirmed that the funds are available to acquire the planes, but they must be refurbished with new landing gear to ensure their airworthiness.

LIAT 2020 is a partnership between the Antiguan and Barbudan government and Nigerian airline Air Peace, which owns 70 percent of the new entity’s shares.

The government strives to revive the carrier, citing its importance to regional connectivity.

Air Peace is expected to provide at least three planes in the initial phase, with plans to open an air route to Nigeria.

The Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) plays a crucial role in ensuring the appropriate handling of aviation-related matters in the Eastern Caribbean.

All airlines that operate in the region must obtain an AOC before they can begin regular scheduled flights.