Adverse weather conditions, characterized by heavy rain and lightning, led to significant disturbances at Nadi International Airport, leaving passengers stranded for hours on their aircraft. The challenging weather caused substantial delays, impacting the disembarkation of passengers from various flights and affecting the departure of nine others.

One passenger, Ashfaaq Khan, a Nadi businessman and frequent flyer, experienced a notable delay aboard his Fiji Airways flight from Auckland. He recounted waiting for over three hours before being allowed to leave the aircraft, a situation he deemed unprecedented in his flying experience. Khan commended the flight crew for their attentive care during the lengthy wait.

The pilot of the Fiji Airways flight expressed frustration over what he deemed a “ridiculous policy” surrounding the extended ground delays. Though no statements were available from Fiji Airports or Fiji Airways at the time, similar incidents have occurred previously due to adverse weather.

Earlier reports indicated that ramp operations at Nadi Airport had been halted by Fiji Airports Limited amid dangerous weather conditions, causing flight cancellations and delays affecting numerous passengers. Fiji Airways has been responsive during such crises, often providing supplementary flights to accommodate those displaced by cancellations or delays, underscoring their commitment to passenger care amidst unforeseen challenges.

Despite the current difficulties, there is hope that weather conditions will improve, allowing airport operations to normalize quickly so that passengers can travel without extensive interruptions. The adaptability of airlines like Fiji Airways during such events demonstrates a commitment to service and safety in aviation, which can foster resilience and continued trust among travelers.