Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet has said that while the government is not opposed to assisting Virgin Atlantic Airways, the means chosen by the airline to obtain support is not in the best interests of Saint Lucia.

The prime minister noted that the amount of money being requested in comparison to the number of seats being provided, and the mechanism chosen which is a direct subsidy is not a viable option.

The airline is requesting that the government pay a subsidy of USD$2.5 million per year over a period of three years.

Prime Minister Chastanet maintained that the government cannot adhere to this request, but remains open to discussions with the airline. The Prime Minister expressed hope that the government and the airline will be able to reach an amicable decision before June 20, 2020.

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