Solomon Airlines announces Domestic flight reduction and suspends Kiribati, Port Vila and Nadi services

Solomon Airlines has announced a significant reduction in the airline’s domestic flight schedule effective from 29 March and suspension of flights between the Solomon Islands and Port Vila, Nadi and Kiribati due to government restrictions.

Announcing the changes, Manager Commercial Colin Sigimanu said the airline would continue to review its operations in conjunction with measures implemented by the governments of Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Fiji, Vanuatu and Australia.  

“We thank our passengers for their patience and understanding as the situation evolves. We are working closely with the Solomon Islands Government and governments in the international markets we serve, to safely continue essential air services,” Mr Sigimanu said.

SOLOMON ISLANDS DOMESTIC SERVICES 

While we are maintaining operations on all domestic routes, it has become necessary to reduce our flight frequency significantly,” Mr Sigimanu said.

“Effective from 29 March we will operate approximately half of our regularly domestic flights so we encourage passengers and travel agents to check our updated schedule carefully. The revised flight schedule will be operated by the company’s Dash 8 and two of the Twin Otter aircraft, with the remaining Twin Otters on standby.

KIRIBATI, FIJI AND VANUATU INTERNATIONAL SERVICES 

Effective immediately Solomon Airlines weekly flight between Honiara and Tarawa, Kiribati will be suspended until further notice, in response to quarantine measures announced by the Kiribati Government. 

Flights from Honiara to Port Vila and Nadi will also be suspended in accordance with the increasing Government restrictions and this week’s departures have been cancelled.

Solomon Airlines will be endeavouring to contact all passengers affected and the airline is continuing to consult with both the Fijian and Vanuatu Governments.

Currently under Government requirements, only Fiji citizens and residents are able to return home to Fiji, and only Vanuatu citizens and residents are able to return home to Vanuatu. All passengers intending to travel on these services must to be cleared prior to the day of departure.  Latest Solomon Airlines Travel Advice is available on our website https://www.flysolomons.com

SOLOMON ISLANDS INTERNATIONAL SERVICES

Effective from yesterday, only Solomon Islands citizens and residents with current residency and a valid residency permit can enter the Solomon Islands. The airline said the situation is constantly evolving and Solomon Airlines is committed to helping Solomon Islands residents and citizens return home where it is permitted. 

Latest Solomon Airlines Travel Advice is available here