5.1 Aviation

5.1 Aviation

Aviation has always a priority for Liga, since the remoteness of the island requires a fast and reliable connection overseas. The oldest airport, 5 miles outside of the city of Liga was established in 1934. The then grass landing strip was in use for foreign aircraft, but Liga didnt own any herself. This changed in 1940 when World War II started, and international connections were disrupted. Liga purchased 3 Douglas DC-2's, later replaced by DC-3's, and purchased after WWII 2 Lockheed Constellations, L-749's. Eventually the runway was changed to concrete and extended.
During the 1970's it was clear a new international airport was needed, with a longer runway, and a modern terminal. Construction started in 1981, and was completed in 1985. A brand new terminal, designed to serve over a million passengers yearly, was inaugurated by president Labberlot on 26 of march 1985. This new airport is close to the city of Liga, just over a mile away, and has a runway of 9500 meters. The decision to line the runway north-south was made due to space considerations, and is in hindsight not an ideal situation due to prevailing western winds, and a take off direction to mountainous area's.
In 1997 Ligirian Airlines was been formed as the national carrier. Currently Ligirian Airlines serves with 4 aircraft, 1 Boeing 747-400, 1 Boeing 787, and two Airbus 320's.