Airline problems in Antigua

At least two regional airlines have been experiencing flight delays and several cancellations due to the amount paid to air traffic controllers to implement what has been described as flow control restrictions.



The airlines, which operate in and out of the VC Bird International Airport say they are paying a high price for the services of the air traffic controllers.



The St Maarten-based Winair and Antigua-based LIAT airlines are estimating thousands of dollars in losses.



But they say the flow control restriction is necessary especially during the month of December to safely manage aircraft movements in and out of the airspace.



Chief Executive Officer of Winair, Mark Darby says many flights out of Antigua have been delayed, while some had to be cancelled.



Meanwhile, the management of LIAT is warning passengers of possible disruptions to the airline’s schedule as the slowdown in the pace of air traffic control clearances at the airport continues.