With the approval of the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Fijian Governments, Solomon Airlines will operate a series of additional international repatriation flights today.

Yesterday the Solomon Islands national carrier operated a passenger flight from Brisbane to Honiara making it possible for Solomon Islands citizens who have been stranded in Australia, New Zealand and other countries, to return home.

The Airbus A320 will then be fully cleaned and sterilised and overnight in Honiara.

Today Solomon Airlines Flight IE664 from Honiara to Port Vila will depart at 09.00 arriving in Port Vila at 11.00, returning home approved Ni-Vanuatu citizens.

Due to Government restrictions, only Honiara-bound passengers will be uplifted in Port Vila and the aircraft will then ferry between Port Vila and Nadi, arriving at 14.15 where it will offload approved Fijian citizens onboard, and board Solomon Island citizens.

An hour later Solomon Airlines Flight IE665 will return from Nadi to Honiara departing at 15.15 arriving in Honiara at 17.15. On arrival in the Solomon Islands, all passengers will be required to go into quarantine for a period of 28 days at a Government approved facility in Honiara.

The flight will then continue as IE667 departing Honiara at 18.00 arriving in Brisbane at 20.15. Solomon Airlines has advised that the flights will fully comply with COVID-19 regulations in accordance with the requirements of the relevant countries. Social distancing will be monitored throughout check-in and boarding processes, and seating will be allocated to allow for spacing as far as possible.

Solomon Airlines crew will wear face masks and gloves for the duration of service and catering will be minimal to reduce contact between passengers and crew.Bookings can be made online at www.flysolomons.com, in the Solomon Islands (phone: 177 or email 177@flysolomons.com.sb) or through Solomon Airlines Sales Offices via phone or email.

Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj