CABINET has approved a monthly EC$50,000 subsidy to reduce airfare between Antigua and Barbuda. According to officials, the measure aims to ease travel costs.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant announced the decision after the latest Cabinet meeting. He explained that high airfare has raised growing concerns among residents.

In particular, the cost affects access to essential services and limits economic activity. Therefore, Cabinet agreed that action was needed.

Merchant said affordable and reliable transportation is critical for Barbudans. For example, residents depend on travel for healthcare, business, and daily movement.

As a result, the subsidy will provide immediate relief while improving access between the islands.

The decision followed a proposal presented to Cabinet. In that proposal, officials outlined the challenges residents face due to high airfare.

Consequently, the government directed that the subsidy’s structure be developed with relevant agencies. At the same time, officials will determine how to apply the airfare reduction.

Merchant said the government remains committed to fair access to transportation. He added that the policy focuses on addressing the needs of Barbudans.

Meanwhile, no timeline has been set for the subsidy to take effect. However, officials confirmed that planning is already underway.

Work will now focus on how the subsidy will operate and how it will reduce ticket prices. Therefore, further details are expected once consultations are complete.

Overall, the subsidy reflects the government’s effort to improve travel access and respond to public concerns. Ultimately, it aims to make transportation more affordable for residents of Barbuda.