ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) — Regional carrier LIAT, has opted not to continue service to the islands of Anguilla and Nevis, following the expiration of a short tern arrangement with Caribbean Helicopters of Antigua.

LIAT says it opted not to renew an agreement with Caribbean Helicopters of Antigua to facilitate limited airlift to the islands.

The agreement officially ended on Saturday.

“As we continue to pursue our relentless pursuit of operational efficiency and profitability, both us and our partner, Caribbean Helicopters, have decided not to extend the arrangement,” LIAT’s Chief Commercial Officer, Lloyd Carswell said.

Airline officials have noted that in 2017, “some route rationalisation is likely to continue” but they will continue to explore the best possible ways to improve the carriers bottom line.

“LIAT is honoured to have been able to assist the islands of Anguilla and Nevis in the augmentation of their airlift for 2016, and we would like to take this opportunity to wish them the very best in the development of their tourism product for the future,” the airline noted in a release on the weekend.