On Tuesday afternoon, Fiji Airways flight FJ263 took off from Nadi en route to Port Vila, unaware of the significant destruction that a 7.3 magnitude earthquake had caused in Vanuatu just an hour prior. The airline has confirmed that the flight had to return to Nadi after the crew was unable to establish communication with Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila.
Flight radar shows that the aircraft completed roughly half of its journey before turning back. The flight departed at 2:30 PM and was scheduled to arrive in Port Vila at 3:15 PM, following the earthquake, which struck at 1:47 PM.
Many Vanuatu nationals shared their experiences on social media upon returning to Nadi, where Fiji Airways assisted them with accommodations at a local hotel.
This situation underscores the impact of natural disasters on travel and the importance of effective communication in aviation. As the crisis unfolds, the resilience of the impacted communities and the quick response of airlines like Fiji Airways can provide hope for recovery and restoration.
Overall, while the earthquake presented significant challenges, the swift action taken to ensure passenger safety reflects a commitment to responsible travel and support during adverse conditions.
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