Aviation Minister Charles Fernandez has expressed optimism about the future of LIAT 20, the rebranded version of LIAT 1974 Ltd.

Despite initial skepticism from some prime ministers within the Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Fernandez, who also serves as the Minister of Tourism, highlighted the successful inaugural flights from Antigua and Barbuda to St. Lucia as evidence of LIAT 20’s rejuvenation.

“Several naysayers, including prime ministers within the Caribbean, were singing the death song of LIAT. At least one of these prime ministers had to turn around and say we need LIAT,” he said

Following LIAT 1974 Ltd’s collapse due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and financial challenges, the region’s aviation sector suffered, leading to the loss of hundreds of jobs.

In response, Prime Minister Gaston Browne proposed a plan to relaunch the airline under a new entity. However, not all shareholder governments backed this initiative, impacting its progress.

Fernandez told the inaugural ceremony on Tuesday that LIAT 20 is important not only to Antigua and Barbuda but also to the entire Caribbean region.

“There is a need for LIAT…LIAT has always been there for all of us, and it is an integral part of the Caribbean,” he said

He also congratulated Air Peace, who he said had seen the vision and agreed to work with the government of Antigua and Barbuda.