KINGSTON, Jamaica — Caribbean aviation connectivity receives a significant boost as LIAT Air announces strategic expansion with two new non-stop routes originating from Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe. The regional carrier unveiled plans to establish enhanced air links to Antigua and Montego Bay, marking a pivotal development in intra-Caribbean transportation infrastructure.
The airline’s expansion strategy commences May 1 with twice-weekly ATR 42 service to Antigua operating Fridays and Sundays, featuring 48-seat aircraft configurations. This initial phase will evolve into year-round operations by July 2026 with the introduction of additional rotations utilizing 50-seat Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft.
Concurrently, LIAT will inaugurate its Montego Bay corridor during July’s first week, deploying Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft for bi-weekly Tuesday and Saturday flights. This permanent service coincides with Jamaica’s premier Reggae Sumfest cultural festival, strategically timed to capitalize on increased regional travel demand.
Alain Bievre, Chairman of Guadeloupe Maryse Condé International Airport’s Board, characterized these developments as transformative for the territory’s aviation landscape. “The restoration of Antigua services and establishment of new Jamaican connectivity represent monumental progress for Guadeloupe’s aviation infrastructure,” Bievre stated. “These routes actualize our board’s diversification strategy, complementing existing services to Southern Caribbean destinations and Canadian markets while positioning our airport as catalyst for economic and tourism development.”
LIAT Air CEO Hafsah Abdulsalam emphasized the expansion’s significance for regional integration, noting: “Reconnecting Antigua reestablishes crucial inter-island linkages that strengthen familial bonds, stimulate economic exchange, and enhance cultural connectivity. Simultaneously, our Montego Bay service creates seamless access to one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant tourism economies, benefiting both Caribbean and European travel corridors.”
Tourism authorities welcomed the developments, with Guadeloupe Islands Tourism Board General Director Rodrigue Solitude noting: “These aviation enhancements transcend mere transportation improvements, fostering cultural exchange and historical connectivity while potentially catalyzing expanded regional network development.”