Liat delays freighter flight

REGIONAL Antigua-based airline Liat has delayed the launch of its dedicated freighter until 1 March.Originally due to start operation in December last year, the conversion of the Dash 8 was delayed due to lack of parts in the Canadian converter’s warehouse.“While LIAT is still awaiting a firm date for its return, indications are that the aircraft should now be available by mid February,” airline said in a statement. “Once the aircraft has been delivered, final approval will be required by Transport Canada and the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority.”“LIAT views this as a very important project which realizes the long standing wish of the Caribbean people for an indigenous air freighter service as well as being central to the airline’s efforts to maintain itself as a viable carrier serving the people of the Eastern Caribbean,” it added.