KINGSTON, Georgetown – “…not only are we resolving the problem with respect to Ogle and the Caribbean region, but we are also laying basis and foundation for reaching further afield into South America with these types of aircraft,” declared the country’s Public Works Minister, Hon. Robeson Benn, at the inaugural landing of a LIAT flight at Ogle Airstrip on Monday.
Flight LI512 glided on the runway at 12:30. The 50-seater Dash 8 aircraft was filled to capacity.
The airline’s move, Hon. Benn noted, will help to address regional connections - a major barrier in the Caribbean.
He also noted that CARICOM officials have a vested interest in the airline’s operation since its headquarters is in close proximity.
Meanwhile, on an economic front Hon. Benn pointed out that with Brazil hosting the Football World Cup tournament and Olympics Games, the airline’s new initiative will boost the country’s financial standing.
He also expressed his gratitude to funding agencies including the European Union for making the venture become a reality.
“I remember the interest from former President Bharrat Jagdeo in this project, and Finance Minister Ashni Singh and I want to acknowledge their efforts, contributions and foresight with respect to having the realisation of this transformational project,” he posited.
Meanwhile, in a press release issued to Guyana’s media fraternity, the regional airline stated that the service will “now provide the carrier with the competitive edge in the Guyana market for regional flights.”
