Fiji Airways grounds its 737 MAX 8 aircraft

By Mata'afa Keni Lesa 14 March 2019, 12:00AM

Fiji Airways has followed some of the world’s biggest airlines to ground their Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircrafts after the Ethiopian Airlines crashed that killed 157 people on Sunday.

The decision was confirmed by a Fiji Airways spokesperson in Fiji.

 “Fiji Airways is hopeful of a smooth transition with minimal disruption to passengers,” the spokesperson told the Samoa Observer via email.

“We will have the capacity to manage the change of aircraft type. This process has gone into immediate effect. We intend to operate schedules as planned, however any changes will be communicated to passengers.”

According to the spokesperson, the decision “might affect some flights” but “we don’t think it will be too many.” He could not say whether these flights include those to Samoa.

The grounding, the spokesperson added, is temporary.

“Fiji Airways will use its existing Boeing 737 NG aircraft as well its Airbus A330 fleet to replace flights which were to be operated by the MAX 8s. 

“Some flight times may be impacted as a result, and all affected customers will be notified of any change in their flight schedules.

“Customers wishing to query their flight schedules can contact Fiji Airways Reservations, however, there may be extended waiting times. 

“Customers are requested to ensure their direct contact details in their bookings are up-to-date. If your flights are booked through a travel agency or third party agency, please contact them.

“Customers can receive up-to-date flight status information on the Fiji Airways website, by visiting www.fijiairways.com.”

By Mata'afa Keni Lesa 14 March 2019, 12:00AM

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