Winair Denies Termination of Services to Antigua, Montserrat

Windward Islands Airways (Winair) has responded to what it describes as “serious, malicious, damaging and deliberately orchestrated rumors geared at discrediting the airline.”

The airline, through its managing director, Edwin Hodge, said that the public should be aware of false rumors, which have been stating that the airline will be pulling out of Antigua and Barbuda at the end of March next year.

“I would like to assure and reiterate to our customers out there that Winair has no plans to cease operation next year in Antigua and Barbuda and even Montserrat as we recognize the level of service that we provide which we know are urgently needed . Therefore, any attempts to instill the belief that Winair will be ceasing to operate after March 2010 should be deemed as malicious and deliberate attempt at creating confusion,” Hodge said.

He noted that the rumors are being peddled by individuals who are bent on distracting customers and the public to the achievements and growth of the airline, while noting that it is a means of reducing Winiar’s rapidly growing revenues in Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat.

“We will not be distracted by the actions of a few as we are confident that the general public is fully aware of the enormous work being done,” Hodge said.

The Winair managing director stressed that his company remains committed and dedicated to the people and governments of Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat, noting that uninterrupted services will continue as long as there is a need for the airline.

“We intend to continue operating here (Antigua and Barbuda) and in Montserrat until our services are no longer needed for the essential services by the Antigua and Montserrat government. Therefore, please be advised that anything contrary to this should be seen as a deliberate attempt to create undue fear and confusion,” he said.

Hodge added that those involved in peddling the baseless allegations and rumors should immediately desist from doing so, noting that Winair will continue to remain a strong and vibrant airline. He further added that a number of new and exciting initiatives are being debated currently by management with a view of continuing to lift the service and quality of the airline to its various destinations for 2010.

“Winair has been around for some 48 years and therefore we want to assure the public of my company’s continued trust and commitment in continuing to provide safe and reliable air transport, thus I warn those detractors to cease their baseless mission of attempting to ruin the impeccable record and image of Winair, as it will not work,” Hodge said.