Prime Minister Gaston Browne says expanded airlift and stronger regional and international connectivity are central to Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism strategy, as the country positions itself as a hub for leisure, business, yachting and conference travel.

Speaking at the World Government Summit in Dubai, Browne said tourism cannot thrive without modern infrastructure and seamless connectivity, describing air access as the lifeblood of competitive tourism economies.

“Air connectivity has been a strategic priority,” Browne said, pointing to efforts to expand routes, strengthen regional and international access and improve the overall passenger experience.

He said these investments are designed to support Antigua and Barbuda’s repositioning toward higher-value tourism, allowing the destination to compete more effectively for premium travellers, international events and diversified tourism segments beyond traditional leisure travel.

Browne said regional air transport remains a critical component of the strategy, referencing the role of LIAT Air in supporting inter-island connectivity and facilitating movement across the Eastern Caribbean.

According to the prime minister, improved airlift complements broader investments in airport infrastructure, ports, roads and digital systems, creating an integrated platform for tourism growth and economic diversification.

He said Antigua and Barbuda’s hub strategy is aimed at strengthening its appeal as a gateway for regional travel while supporting business tourism, yachting and conference activity, all of which contribute to higher visitor spend and longer stays.

Browne said connectivity should be viewed not simply as a transport issue, but as a core pillar of national development, warning that destinations without reliable and competitive access risk losing relevance in an increasingly interconnected global tourism market.