Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Colin C. James, LIAT 20 CEO Hafsah Abdulsalam, and Chairman Ambassador Davin Joseph, along with other Antiguan officials celebrated the opening of the route poised to bring the Caribbean closer together. The Antiguan delegation was welcomed by Bishop Juan A. Edghill, the Guyana Minister of Public Works, along with Kamrul Baksh, the Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, and other officials from Guyana's airport authority.
During the welcome ceremony marking the inaugural flight, LIAT 20 CEO Hafsah Abdulsalam, described the launch as “a proud moment for regional travel,” emphasizing Guyana’s vast potential as a destination. “We want travellers to know they can count on us to deliver not just connectivity, but a premier experience,” she added.
This new service promises to enhance accessibility and broaden travel opportunities for business and leisure travellers.
“A sustainable LIAT is a “quintessential institution” for the Caribbean Community because the movement of people is key to regional integration,” said Prime Minister Browne. He also revealed plans to add a seventh aircraft, a 125-seater, to LIAT 20’s fleet to support future expansions out of the Caribbean. These efforts will position Antigua as a key hub for South American and Caribbean travel, addressing critical gaps in CARICOM connectivity.
Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority Kamrul Baksh during the ceremony announced plans to work together with the CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority to develop itineraries aimed at promoting travel between Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster regional tourism and increase seat sales on carriers such as LIAT 20.
CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Colin C. James emphasized the importance of partnerships between CARICOM nations and regional airlines, noting that such collaborations are vital to growing the Caribbean’s tourism industry. Both leaders expressed optimism that these efforts will enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and create more opportunities for travellers to explore the diverse offerings of the region.
Source: The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority St. John’s Antigua.