ANTIGUA | The Dawn of LIAT 2020: A New Era in Caribbean Aviation

ST. JOHNS, Antigua and Barbuda – May 1, 2024 – The skies of the Caribbean are set to welcome a vibrant newcomer, LIAT 2020, poised to connect the eastern to the northern Caribbean with a fresh fleet and an innovative approach.

Spearheaded by Antigua's prime minister Gaston Browne's and in partnership with Africa's premier airline, Air Peace, this collaboration marks a significant milestone in regional aviation, promising a new era of interisland travel.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne who has been unable to convince shareholder governments of LIAT 1974 Limited to invest in a new entity, approached Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, which has  entered into a joint initiative with the government of Antigua and Barbuda to bolster investments in LIAT 2020 Ltd. 

According to Airspace Africa, Air Peace is one of Africa’s leading privately owned airlines, and  has demonstrated a keen interest in expanding its presence in the Caribbean. The airline has a  fleet of over 38 aircraft and more than 3,000 employees. 

The Nigerian carrier currently serves markets in Africa, the Middle East, India, China, and Israel and is working towards launching scheduled flights between Barbados and Nigeria.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, has been a vocal advocate for rescuing LIAT and preserving regional control over the airline. Despite an earlier bid from Air Peace to acquire a 75% shareholding, Browne expressed concerns about external control and potential price gouging.

Ambassador Daven Joseph, Interim Chairman of LIAT 2020, expressed optimism about the airline's imminent operations, stating, "We aim to launch with four aircraft within the next four weeks, pending the acquisition of the Air Operators Certificate (AOC)."

This venture begins with the acquisition of three aircraft from the defunct LIAT 1974 Limited for $US 12.1 million, facilitated through the Caribbean Development Bank. "We are in the final stages of the acquisition process, and our immediate contribution of $US 4.1 million will expedite this," said Joseph.

The partnership with Air Peace brings not only investment but also additional aircraft to the fleet, enhancing LIAT 2020’s capacity for service expansion. "One of our initial aircraft is ready and operational, with the others undergoing scheduled maintenance. Our goal is to have all aircraft operational by September," Joseph added.

LIAT 2020’s strategic plan includes offering competitively priced services, prioritizing customer satisfaction, and ensuring efficient and safe operations. From its base in Antigua and Barbuda, the airline plans to extend its wings as far south as Suriname and north to Miami, integrating long-haul jet aircraft into its fleet to accommodate these broader routes.

Hafsah Abdul-Salam, representing Air Peace, emphasized the airline's readiness, announcing, "Post-AOC acquisition, our inaugural flights will connect St. Lucia and St. Kitts, marking the beginning of regular service."

Support from regional leaders like St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J Pierre, who discussed potential financial backing for LIAT 2020, underscores the collective commitment to revitalizing Caribbean air travel. "It’s crucial we enhance regional connectivity; it should be easier to travel within the Caribbean than to Miami," said Pierre.

The arrival of the first two Embraer ERJ 145s at Antigua’s V.C. Bird International Airport was celebrated with a traditional water cannon salute, symbolizing a promising start for LIAT 2020. These jets are a part of the initial rollout, soon to be followed by demonstration flights across key destinations to showcase operational readiness.

As LIAT 2020 gears up for its launch, a comprehensive marketing campaign is set to inform prospective travelers of the new options available. Tickets are expected to go on sale soon, as the team finalizes preparations to ensure a smooth takeoff for this eagerly anticipated airline.

With renewed energy and robust partnerships, LIAT 2020 is not just reviving an airline but is setting the stage for a revolution in Caribbean air travel, promising to bring the islands closer with every flight.

-30-