LIAT20 AND BLUESEA PARTNER ON CHARTER FLIGHTS TO COLOMBIA

BlueSea, a leading destination management company, has announced the launch of the first direct flight between Antigua and Colombia. The weekly charter, facilitated in partnership with LIAT 20, is expected to begin operations by mid-September this year.

The new air link is set to benefit Antigua and Barbuda across three key sectors: tourism, healthcare and trade.

September marks a traditionally slow period for tourism, and the country aims to tap into the growing Latin American market, where most travellers can enter Antigua visa-free. Antigua is also positioned to serve as a cruise hub for Latin American tourists who face visa restrictions in the U.S.

BlueSea is collaborating with Global Ports Holding to further develop Antigua’s cruise tourism offerings.

In healthcare, the direct flight will improve access for Antiguans and Barbudans seeking medical treatment in Latin America, especially for cancer care.

On the trade front, the route opens direct access to Colombian exports such as coffee, petroleum and fresh produce. With potential tariffs from the U.S. looming, this link could provide more affordable goods for Antigua and position the country as a regional distribution hub.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority CEO Collin James said while the initiative will begin with a weekly charter, the goal is to expand to regular commercial flights through the LIAT 20 partnership.