LIAT 2020, a new airline established by the government of Antigua and Barbuda, has completed a series of training flights over the weekend under the close supervision of the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA).
The airline is required to follow this process to obtain its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) before it can begin regular scheduled flights, and the ECCAA has a vital role to play in ensuring that all aviation-related matters in the Eastern Caribbean region are handled appropriately. Sources reveal that two flights were conducted on Saturday afternoon from VC Bird International Airport to St Kitts and back, followed by two similar flights on Sunday morning.
The ECCAA closely monitored these flights, examining all aspects of the airline’s performance, including safety protocols, flight operations, and communication systems.
The training flights were successful, and the ECCAA has provided valuable feedback to LIAT 2020 to help the airline meet all the requirements necessary to receive the AOC.
During a live radio programme, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced the successful completion of the training flights, which generated a wave of congratulatory comments and posts from the public.
LIAT 2020 is a partnership between the government of Antigua and Barbuda and Nigerian airline Air Peace. Air Peace will provide three aircraft to the new airline, as part of its contribution, which are expected to arrive in Antigua and Barbuda soon.
LIAT 2020 is expected to conduct additional training flights throughout the week as it works to meet all requirements before receiving the AOC.
The airline’s success in obtaining the AOC will enable it to begin regular scheduled flights and become a significant player in the aviation industry in the Eastern Caribbean region.
