Plans to Phase out ATR42
"This ensures the continued safety and airworthiness of the aircraft involved," Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji chief executive Theresa O'Boyle-Levestam.
Saturday 21 December 2024 | 16:06
Insiders close to the airline said an ATR72 aircraft was down, "so they had to use some parts from ATR42 to keep it flying".
Temporarily measures have been put in place by Fiji Airways to maintain operations.
Such measures, according to civil aviation authorities, may be acceptable if conducted in compliance with the airline's approved procedures.
"This ensures the continued safety and airworthiness of the aircraft involved," Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji chief executive Theresa O'Boyle-Levestam.
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The development follows the use ofB737 Max for the Nadi-Nausori-Nadi morning flights, in place of two ATR72 planes.
Insiders close to the airline said an ATR72 aircraft was down, "so they had to use some parts from AT42 to keep it flying".
"In the process of using some parts, the ATR42 aircraft could not fly and is now grounded," sources said.
"The second ATR72 plane services flights to Vavau, Tonga, because of the huge volume of passengers keen on whale watching.
"The immediate plan for the airline is to get in two ATR72 planes and to phase out the ATR42plane."
Two aircraft are expected to add to the airline's fleet, SunBiz was told.
Civil aviation authorities said it was aware of Fiji Airways plans to enhance its fleet and was working closely with the airline to ensure the incoming aircraft meet all regulatory requirements and were promptly registered on the Fiji aircraft register.
"CAAF is not directly involved in operational- level decisions, such as the redistribution of parts between aircraft," Ms O'BoyleLevestam said.
"However, as the regulatory authority, we maintain oversight of the airline's maintenance programmes and conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with international safety standards.
"Operational decisions made by the airline, including the use of aircraft parts and fleet management, must strictly adhere to their approved maintenance procedures and regulatory requirements.
"Regarding the airline's fleet management, this demonstrates adaptability in maintaining route coverage and meeting passenger needs, even in the face of fleet limitations."
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