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🇦🇺 Australia /Energy & Infrastructure

Fiji airport fuel contamination forces airlines to BYO supplies

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Airlines flying to Fiji are forced to bring their own fuel due to a "major contamination" issue at Nadi International Airport.
  • The contamination has led to flight cancellations and rerouting, with the problem expected to persist until the end of the month.
  • Fiji Airports confirmed operational adjustments are being made, while airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia are adapting their flight plans.

A significant fuel contamination issue at Nadi International Airport has forced airlines servicing Fiji to become self-sufficient, bringing their own fuel supplies to the island nation. The problem, described by one pilot as "very rare," has disrupted flight schedules and necessitated complex logistical adjustments for carriers.

very rare

— PilotA pilot described the fuel contamination situation at Nadi International Airport to the ABC.

Virgin Australia canceled two services to Fiji and is rerouting flights to stop at intermediate airports like New Caledonia and Vanuatu for refueling. Pilots are being instructed to carry extra fuel, with one noting the need to transport "more than 20 tonnes" to ensure a return journey to Australia. This situation is expected to continue until the end of the month, impacting regular flight operations.

major contamination

— PilotPilots were informed of a "major contamination" in the fuel supply at Nadi International Airport.

Qantas has responded by switching to larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A330, for its Sydney-Nadi route to avoid the need for refueling in Fiji. While the exact cause of the contamination remains unclear, sources suggest it may involve an excessive electrical charge in a fuel batch. Fiji Airports has stated they are making "operational adjustments" and "closely monitoring the current aviation fuel situation," assuring that the airport remains open and operational with safety protocols in place. Meanwhile, Fiji Airlines, the country's national carrier, is reportedly prioritizing its flights for refueling amidst broader financial pressures related to rising fuel costs.

more than 20 tonnes

— PilotA pilot explained the significant amount of extra fuel required for flights to and from Fiji due to the contamination.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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