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Australian airline Bonza has “briefly suspended” all flights after abruptly coming into voluntary administration on Tuesday (30 April).
The monetary turmoil has left hundreds of passengers stranded round Australia as flights have been unexpectedly cancelled on all 36 Bonza routes.
Bonza stated in a assertion: “Bonza has briefly suspended companies as a result of be operated as we speak (Tuesday thirtieth April), as discussions are presently underway concerning the ongoing viability of the enterprise.
“We apologise to our clients who’re impacted by this and we’re working as rapidly as potential to find out a approach ahead that ensures there may be ongoing competitors within the Australian home aviation market.”
Bonza, the primary finances airline to launch in Australia since 2007, took off for home locations from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast in January 2023.
Melbourne, Port Macquarie, Cairns and the Whitsunday Coast are all served by the low-cost service.
The airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 Max 8 planes was grounded and reportedly repossessed by collectors, in line with native media.
Leaders of the Australian aviation trade – Qantas and Virgin Australia – have each provided assist to stranded Bonza clients.
“For any clients with a cancelled Bonza flight on a route we function, to verify you’re not additional out of pocket, you’ll be able to fly with us without charge the place now we have seats obtainable,” stated Qantas in a assertion.
An emergency assist hotline has additionally been arrange for passengers booked on cancelled flights by the federal transport division.
Michael Kaine, the Transport Staff Union nationwide secretary, instructed The Guardian: “That is a particularly distressing time for employees and stranded passengers. Bonza should guarantee employees are prioritised and knowledgeable as this course of performs out.”
Paperwork filed with the Australian Securities and Investments Fee outlined that Corridor Chadwick will act because the airline’s voluntary administrator for its working and holding firm.
