Connecting the Caribbean islands since 1956.
Founded
1956
Headquarters
St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda
Leeward Islands Air Transport, commonly known as LIAT, is a Caribbean regional airline headquartered in Antigua and Barbuda. Founded in 1956, it has served as a vital link between the Eastern Caribbean islands, operating scheduled passenger services across dozens of destinations throughout the region.
LIAT has faced significant financial difficulties over the decades, relying heavily on subsidies from regional governments. The airline ceased operations in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequently went into administration, before efforts were made to restructure and relaunch services under new ownership led by the Antiguan government.
The restructured airline resumed limited operations in 2021, focusing on a smaller network of routes with a reduced fleet. Despite its turbulent history, LIAT remains a critical transportation lifeline for many small island communities in the Eastern Caribbean that lack alternative air service options.
Hubs & network
LIAT's primary hub is V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua, with secondary operations through several Eastern Caribbean island airports.
Fleet
LIAT historically operated ATR 42 and ATR 72 turboprop aircraft, with the restructured airline operating a small number of similar regional turboprops.
Notable facts
- ›LIAT has been nicknamed 'Leave Island Any Time' by Caribbean travelers due to historical delays.
- ›The airline entered administration in 2020 following severe financial losses exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- ›At its peak, LIAT served over 20 destinations across the Eastern Caribbean.
- ›Several Eastern Caribbean governments, including Barbados, St. Vincent, and Dominica, were historically shareholders in the airline.
- ›The restructured LIAT relaunched operations in 2021 under Antiguan government stewardship with a significantly reduced network.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
