Regional carrier, LIAT, is said to be planning on returning to Guyana, however the government is seeking to ensure that quality service will be provided for all passengers flying into Guyana. Photo: VINO/File

LIAT ceased operations to Guyana last year when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of airports in efforts to control the spread of the virus.

According to Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, the regional airline has applied to return to Guyana.

Edghill, however, noted that the airline will not receive the necessary aviation approval until the government is assured of the company’s steadfastness. When pressed on the requirements for permission, the Public Works Minister answered, “It has to do with the assurances that we can have.”

“… Passengers don’t want to be buying tickets and be left with a stub in their hand and no carrier to bring them back or take them in,” Edghill stated

He also noted that the government was not withholding permission in favour of interCaribbean airlines, another regional carrier that has just entered the Guyanese market. In fact, he stated that there is no “exclusivity” for anyone.

Meanwhile, Saheed Sulaman, the Director of Air Transport Management at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has been quoted as saying that the “ball is in LIAT’s court”.

“They need to submit their business case to the GCAA to show that they have the financial resources to show that they can provide their services efficiently and legally,” Sulaman said.  (CMC)