The Airlines PNG Dash8 on lease to Solomon Airlines in Solomon Islands has now been cleared for limited operations beginning on Saturday 29th October.
CASA-PNG have deliberated on the course of action in regards to releasing all APNG Dash8 to return to normal operations and have advised APNG that whilst releasing the Dash8’s back to flying duties, for the first week or two from Saturday, the flights will be released to a limited return to schedules.
Solomon Airlines has rescheduled the Dash8 to a “limited schedule” for the next week and hopes to be fully operational by the following weekend from the 5th November onwards.
“Passengers are requested to maintain contact with the airlines offices and agents to review their travel arrangements.”
The airline apologized for the changes to schedules which was affected by the Dash8 grounding which was beyond its control but noted they are quickly trying to get back to NORMAL SCHEDULED FLYING as soon as possible and in time for the high travel season of Christmas so as to ensure Travellers get to their destinations in good time for a happy and festive season.
In addition, Airlines PNG have finally agreed to extend the Dash8 beyond its contracted end of term on the 4th December 2011 which would have greatly affected travel throughout the SI over the festive season.
Solomon Airlines has agreed now to extend the lease for a further 6 months period from the 4th December which, it says, will come at a much HIGHER COST to the airline but indicated that without the Dash8, the airline would not be able to cope.
The airline suggested that plans for the Christmas travel season should now be carefully formulated to avoid disappointments over the Christmas period
