LIAT (Leeward Islands Air Transport): A Caribbean Aviation Legacy Founded on October 20, 1956, by aviation pioneer Sir Frank Delisle in Montserrat, LIAT began as a modest operation with a single Piper Apache aircraft, providing non-scheduled services between Montserrat and Antigua . Over the decades, LIAT evolved into a vital regional carrier, connecting numerous Caribbean islands and becoming an integral part of the region's transportation infrastructure. In 1974, following financial challenges faced by its then-majority owner, UK-based Court Line, LIAT was restructured as LIAT (1974) Ltd. . This restructuring was supported by a consortium of Caribbean governments, ensuring continued inter-island connectivity. Headquartered at V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua, LIAT (1974) Ltd operated high-frequency inter-island services, with a fleet that included aircraft such as the de Havilland Canada DHC-8 Dash 8 and ATR 42/72 turboprops . However, the airline faced persistent financial difficulties, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. On June 27, 2020, the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda announced plans for LIAT's liquidation, citing increased debt and the economic impact of the pandemic . Despite efforts to restructure, LIAT (1974) Ltd ceased operations on January 24, 2024 . In response to LIAT's closure, a new entity, LIAT 2020 Ltd, was established in July 2020 through a partnership between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and Nigerian airline Air Peace, which holds a 70% stake . The new airline commenced operations on August 6, 2024, with an inaugural flight to Castries, Saint Lucia, and began scheduled services on August 19, 2024, focusing on inter-island connectivity . As of May 2025, LIAT 2020 Ltd continues to expand its services, including launching flights to Barbuda on April 7, 2025 . The airline's revival underscores the enduring importance of regional air travel in the Caribbean and the commitment to maintaining vital connections between the islands.