Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin James, says historical travel data and current tourism trends indicate that the newly restored LIAT Air route between Antigua and Guadeloupe is expected to increase visitor arrivals to Antigua and Barbuda.

Speaking during the inaugural LIAT Air trip to Guadeloupe on Friday, James said tourism officials studied previous performance figures before supporting the route’s return.

“What we did, we looked at historic data because historic data tells you how it used to perform. It used to perform very well,” James explained.

He pointed to the popularity of ferry services between Guadeloupe and Antigua as further evidence of demand, noting that ferry arrivals frequently bring hundreds of visitors who shop, dine and spend time in Antigua.

James said the flexibility of air travel could further expand that market by allowing travellers to visit Antigua for short weekend trips or longer vacations.

Tourism officials are now focusing heavily on educating travel agents and strengthening destination awareness in the French market to ensure the route succeeds long term.

James also highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s close cultural links with neighbouring Caribbean islands, particularly Dominica, saying improved connectivity benefits the wider region and strengthens regional integration.