Since the collapse of regional air carrier LIAT in 2020, the Caribbean has suffered in air connectivity with exorbitant airfares.
The Antiguan Government has partnered with a Nigerian Airline, Air Peace, to create a new Airline, LIAT2020.
By April 14, 2024, the new iteration of LIAT was near complete certification for test flights in the region.
Prime Minister Pierre says Saint Lucia is closely monitoring these developments with a keen interest to get involved.
“The prime minister of Antigua has gone into a partnership with an African Airline. They want to launch LIAT2020. Saint Lucia has not got involved in terms of putting any finances. We are monitoring and talking to Antigua,” Pierre said.
LIAT 2020 is reportedly a 30/70 partnership between the government of Antigua and Barbuda and Air Peace, which would invest up to USD80 million into the venture that is to boost flagging regional connectivity.
The Nigerian carrier has committed to providing three E145s to LIAT 2020.
Pierre says once a share structure is established, Saint Lucia will begin official discussions with Antigua.
“Very soon, when things are ready, when the share structure is organised, Saint Lucia will look at it and its feasibility. We need to improve air travel in this country so we’ll see what we can do.”
Currently, Saint Lucia has air travel arrangements with numerous airlines to bolster connectivity to the United States, United Kingdom and Canada.
In most cases, air fare for travel outside of the region is cheaper than regional travel.
