The Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir Rodney Williams, announced during the Throne Speech on Thursday that the revival of LIAT will play a pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity as Air Peace prepares to launch direct flights between Africa and Antigua. Sir Rodney emphasized that LIAT’s resurgence symbolizes the sustainability of an airline once deemed a “dead horse,” positioning it as a crucial link for passengers arriving from the African continent. The expanded operations of LIAT are expected to transform Antigua and Barbuda into a regional hub, facilitating the movement of African tourists and business travelers to neighboring islands—a development seen as a significant economic opportunity for the Eastern Caribbean. Sir Rodney highlighted that LIAT’s expansion beyond the Eastern Caribbean reflects a broader recovery in the aviation sector, reinforcing Antigua’s strategic role in interregional travel and tourism growth. The Throne Speech also underscored the government’s infrastructure investments, including runway resurfacing at V.C. Bird International Airport and upgrades to roads and utilities, which are essential for accommodating increased passenger traffic. With Air Peace set to commence regular flights to Antigua, LIAT’s network will be instrumental in efficiently distributing incoming visitors across the Caribbean. Sir Rodney likened LIAT’s renewed mission to a “phoenix,” rising to meet the next phase of regional air connectivity.
LIAT’s Comeback Will Support Africa–Caribbean Air Link Through Air Peace, GG says
