LIAT cites aircraft problems

LIAT has outlined a number of problems that has affected service to customers throughout the islands.
In a press release today from the regional airline LIAT stated that its operations continued to be affected by numerous challenges throughout its network.
“The Company is currently modernizing its fleet by replacing all of its Dash 8 Aircraft with ATR Aircraft. During this transition, LIAT continues to operate its scheduled passenger and cargo service and carry out scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on its entire fleet of aircraft including the Dash 8 and new ATR 72. LIAT is also responding to traditionally high demand during the summer peak. This combination of factors has resulted in significant challenges for the company exacerbated by the grounding of one of the company’s new ATR aircraft in Barbados yesterday as a result of a technical issue.
“LIAT’s Maintenance Department has advised that the grounded ATR aircraft is likely to remain out of service for the remainder of this week as the matter is being addressed. The technical issue concerns a higher than normal oil consumption. The safety of our passengers and crew is of paramount importance and as such the Aircraft will only be returned to service after the issue is resolved,” stated the release.
The release also noted that these challenges were further compounded by “recent station staff issues” in Dominica and Barbados.
“While the company is doing everything to minimize the effects on its customers, they are being advised that for the coming days further disruptions to the schedule are likely to take place. LIAT will continue to make every effort to mitigate the disruptions. We will also continue to issue timely, informative and up-to-date Passenger Communication Advisories at all stations; through our web site; LIAT Facebook and the media; and directly to our customers where contact information has been provided” added the release. (CM/PR)