British Airways Commercial Manager for Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria has classified Liberia as hub for the West African region in terms of business development.

Mr. Kola Olayinka said it was their intention to maintain the pedigree already began in their business arrangement here in Liberia.

"It is our intention that this should be the case in Liberia and we regard Monrovia as a developing business hub in the region. It is certainly a benefit that the three flights a week between Freetown, Monrovia and London operate in and out of terminal 5," he said.

Mr. Olayinka said the British Airways has reached a decision to provide the best accommodation for travelers for special discount for the first three weeks of its operations in the country.

The British Airways executive made the statement last weekend during the launch of the British Airways direct flight to Monrovia.

He said the British Airways has improved what he calls the Executive Club Loyalty Program, offering more rewards and introducing a bronze tier between the blue entry tier and silver membership.

He further said it takes just half the points needed to reach silver status to qualify for a brome card, but stressed that it provides some service benefits previously only associated with silver and gold cards.

Speaking also at the launching, outgoing Transport Minister L. Eugene Nagba said the Liberian Government would shortly start the redevelopment process of the Robert Field International Airport (RIA).

He said the Government was committed to reaching the RIA to international standard.