By ASHTOSH SINGH
Fiji’s International Airline, Fiji Airways wishes to apologise to its customers for the disruptions on its Auckland – Nadi and Suva – Auckland flights last Thursday and Friday.
“We understand and share the frustrations when disruptions do happen, however, we do not compromise on safety. Therefore we don’t fly unless we’re absolutely sure that we match or exceed international safety and security standards,” Managing Director and CEO for Fiji Airways, Stefan Pichler said.
The reason for the delays was a mechanical system fault relating to the brakes system on the B737-700 aircraft while it was in Auckland on Thursday.
The company’s engineering services provider had difficulties isolating the fault due to the nature of the defect. Thus the defect isolation and rectification took longer than anyone had anticipated. The aircraft returned safely to service on Saturday afternoon.
Because there was no confirmed information on when the aircraft would be fixed and available for service, customers experienced delays.
“Fiji Airways offered options to customers to travel on later dates, and Fiji Airways’ contracted ground handing agents in Auckland were available at all times to attend to their needs, all customers were given meal vouchers and those from outside Auckland were given accommodation,” Mr Pichler added.