Bad news for Fijian tourism, it seems. Korean Air is understood to be ending its three times a week Seoul-Nadi-Seoul, flights from October 1.

The loss making airline has not yet made an official statement about this business move.

This would a big blow to our UK and Europe visitor arrivals, as well as Asia as Korean Air had good flight network from these big cities hubbing out of Seoul. It also provided very competitive fares from Nadi to many countries.

According to reliable sources the bulk of the Korean  market was not directly competing with Fiji Airways as Korean Air were strong out of UK and Europe markets, where Fiji Airways are not flying to.

A travel agency which wished not to be identified noted that they have not been officially notified by the airline but have received news that Korean Airlines will cease operations from Fiji from October 1.

“The online booking system does not allow us or anyone to book their flights from October 1. Right now we can only book flights till September 30 but nothing beyond that,” a staff member said.

It is understood that those booked on  Korean Air beyond September 30 on the said routes will be advised and their flights will be re-routed.

Queries sent to Korean Airlines before this edition went to press still remained unanswered.

A senior journalist yesterday visited the Korean Air office at the Nadi International Airport and was told by an employee that it was business as usual.

Feedback:  maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj