LIAT 2020 takes flight

By Kimone Witter    

 

The newly formed LIAT 2020 made its inaugural flight to St. Lucia on Tuesday, signalling the return to the skies of the inter-regional airline.

 

The airline's previous owner, LIAT (1974) Limited, went bankrupt in January this year.

 

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he was pleased to be participating in the event considering the difficulties with LIAT 1974, four years ago. 

 

"I believe that this is a great story of courage, of patience, and of resilience, and perhaps the message to all of us is that notwithstanding the challenges, we should always press on with determination, with optimism, knowing that invariably, there is a brighter future for those who have the courage and resilience to fight whatever obstacles are placed in your way," he said. 

 

LIAT 1974 Limited has been under administration since July 24, 2020, and the new entity has been formed in partnership with Air Peace, a private Nigerian airline founded in 2013.

 

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Browne said Air Peace would be putting in close to US$65 million, while the government is investing US$20 million.