LIAT 2020 photo by Wayne Mariette via Facebook
Antigua Government Spokesman Lionel ‘Max’ Hurst addressed concerns regarding airfares for LIAT 2020, the airline now predominantly owned by the private operator Air Peace.
Hurst emphasized that the definition of “reasonable” airfares is intrinsically linked to the airline’s operating costs.
He explained that while there is a desire to make flying between Caribbean countries more affordable for residents, it is imperative for the airline to recuperate costs as subsidies from governments are no longer viable.
Hurst highlighted that in the past, LIAT was entirely government-owned, with several national treasuries supporting its operations.
However, LIAT 2020’s ownership structure has significantly changed, with 70% owned by Air Peace and 30% by the government of Antigua and Barbuda.
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This shift to private ownership has altered the dynamics of decision-making, particularly concerning airfare pricing.
The government of Antigua and Barbuda intends to share its ownership interest in LIAT with other Caribbean countries, reducing its stake and spreading responsibility across the region.
This approach aims to foster greater collaboration among Caribbean nations regarding the airline’s operations and costs.
Air Peace, as the primary private operator, holds a pivotal role in determining airfare pricing.
Hurst expressed confidence that Air Peace is motivated to keep airfares competitive and affordable, particularly as part of their broader strategy to bring passengers from Africa to the Caribbean and then utilize LIAT as a regional hub.
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“Air Peace’s goal is to make air travel attractive and accessible for large groups traveling within the Caribbean, with Antigua and Barbuda serving as a central base,” Hurst stated. He assured that governments would collaborate closely with Air Peace to ensure that air travel remains affordable for Caribbean residents, stressing the importance of making airfares attractive and reasonable.
While the shift to private ownership of LIAT 2020 introduces new challenges in managing airfare costs, the government of Antigua and Barbuda, along with other Caribbean nations, is committed to working with Air Peace to maintain affordable air travel across the region.
WATCH A VIDEO OF HURST ADDRESSING AIR FARES BELOW:
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