LIAT announces more disruption

29.FEB.08

LIAT advised on Tuesday that there are disruptions to the airline’s service and it is working resolutely at solving the problems as quickly as possible.{{more}}

According to a release from the company, the interruptions in service which affected last weekend’s schedule have been brought about by a number of reasons, chief among which are maintenance issues and crewing challenges. However, the airline is implementing measures that should improve day-to-day operations and certainly its on time performance.

With regard to crew, the airline has been impacted in a few quarters: the high level of uncertified sickness and the resignations of crew as a result of having been head-hunted by other airlines.

The release said that LIAT has taken steps to address the issues by operating a temporary reduced schedule from February 26th, 2008, which will ease the requirement for pilots and cabin crew. In addition, the new schedule will now offer an early morning rather than night service into Georgetown, Guyana, in response to security concerns by crew and in consideration of the general welfare of passengers. Additionally, back-up aircraft for both the Antigua and Barbados bases will be made available to protect the integrity of the schedule. As well, the expertise of a Flight Operations Consultant has been sought as the airline seeks to fine-tune it operations.