A Fiji Airways flight carrying dozens of passengers from Sydney has been diverted to Tonga after Tropical Cyclone Vaianu thwarted three attempted landings in Nadi.
Fiji Airways on Tuesday said the flight from Sydney to Nadi was diverted to the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa as a precaution due to adverse weather conditions impacting the region.
"Safety remains the highest priority in all Fiji Airways operations, particularly during periods of severe weather," it said in a written statement on its website.
The aircraft would continue its journey to Nadi once conditions allowed, Fiji Airways said.
"Fiji Airways apologises for the inconvenience caused and appreciates the understanding and patience of all guests."
Fiji Airports said six international flights, including Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia services, and all Fiji Link domestic flights, were cancelled due to bad weather brought on by Tropical Cyclone Vaianu.
One passenger travelling on a family holiday described the experience as "hairy" but told ABC News she was glad the pilots diverted after the third landing attempt.
"There were a few yelps and there was a bit of motion sickness going on up there, which was obviously not ideal," she said.
"The wind shear was pretty crazy up there, so I'm glad that they made a decision to move on."
Another, who was travelling with his wife and three children, said the experience was "pretty dramatic".
"There were basically people spewing up and down the aisles. Fortunately, my kids were pretty good; they sat there half asleep or they were entertaining themselves," he said.
Fiji Meteorological Service said a heavy rain warning remained in force for the country on Wednesday.
SHARE ME