19 Dec 2006

Fiji airline seeks exemptions from travel sanctions

10:43 am on 19 December 2006

Family members of Fiji's military who work for the national airline, Air Pacific, are in danger of losing their jobs

The Fiji Sun quotes Air Pacific's managing director, John Campbell, as saying they are now at the mercy of the Australian and New Zealand governments which have placed a travel ban on all members of the Fiji military and their families.

Mr Campbell says already one member of their cabin crew has had her visa to Australia cancelled.

He says they have written to the Australian high commission requesting their sympathetic consideration for a restricted visa as a means of preserving their employment.

Mr Campbell says this would comply with the intent and spirit of the Australian travel ban.

Air Pacific will make a similar appeal to New Zealand.