A charter flight carrying a Caribbean delegation has travelled directly to Africa for the first time, marking a new step in strengthening economic and diplomatic ties between the two regions.

The flight, organised by Aquarian Consult Limited with support from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), departed the Robert L Bradshaw International Airport in St Kitts on March 21 and arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Nigeria, on March 22.

More than 100 passengers were on board, including business leaders, government officials and cultural representatives from eight Caribbean countries.

The flight coincides with the start of the Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit, which runs from March 23 to 28 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.

Officials said the direct route eliminates the need for layovers in Europe or North America, reducing travel time and demonstrating the potential for permanent air links between the Caribbean and West Africa.

The initiative is also aimed at strengthening ties between the OECS and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), with a focus on expanding trade, investment and cultural exchange.

Delegates attending the summit are expected to participate in high-level discussions on areas including agriculture, the blue economy and broader investment opportunities.

Aquarian Consult Managing Director Aisha Maina described the flight as a significant step in advancing relations between the two regions.

“This flight isn’t just carrying people; it’s carrying the future of Afri-Caribbean trade, tourism and shared prosperity,” she said.