LIAT becomes new ATR customer in the Caribbean region

Leeward Islands Air Transport Services (LIAT) stated (17-Jan-2013) it has ordered three 48-seat ATR 42-600s to start replacement of former turboprops. The Antigua & Barbuda carrier said the agreement also includes options for two 68-seat ATR 72-600, and is valued at over USD100 million. LIAT will take delivery of their very first ATR 42-600 in Jun-2013. With the arrival of these aircraft from ATR, plus additional ATR -600s under discussion from leasing companies, LIAT will progressively replace its current fleet of former turboprop aircraft. The airline currently operates a fleet of 14 aircraft over its Caribbean network, which includes main hubs at Antigua, Barbados and Trinidad, and destinations in, among others, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Sint Marteen, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, St. Lucia and St Vincent. [more - original PR]