Air New Zealand is one of several airlines having to bring in extra fuel to Fiji and cancel flights as a national fuel shortage affects the country's international airport.
At least one of the national carrier's flights to Nadi has been cancelled, with an airline spokesperson telling 1News measures had been taken to manage fuel restrictions in the Pacific Island nation.
"Over the last two days we have taken measures to manage the fuel restrictions in Fiji, including tankering fuel, cancelling one service, and upgauging two services to our Widebody aircraft," they said.
"All impacted passengers have been reaccommodated on services departing that day. We thank our customers for their patience and understanding as we continue to work to minimise any disruption."
Australian airlines were also impacted. Virgin Australia said its Nadi services were refuelling in Port Vila or Noumea due to Fiji’s fuel shortage, with some flights also cancelled.
Qantas told the ABC the issue was affecting all carriers and the airline was using A330 aircraft on its Sydney-Nadi route to avoid refuelling in Fiji.
Fiji Airways said it wasn’t anticipating any disruption to flights but confirmed there was a shortage due to an unusable delivery of fuel from one of the airline’s suppliers.
"Fiji Airways is working closely with relevant government agencies, Fiji Airports Limited and industry partners to ensure operations continue smoothly, with all fuel subject to Fiji Airways’ rigorous testing and clearance requirements before use,” chief operations officer Aaron Dean told local media.
Last year, more than 219,000 New Zealanders visited Fiji, making it one of the country's favourite holiday destinations.
SHARE ME