25 Mar 2014

Optimism over new air service to Tonga's Vava'u group

4:56 pm on 25 March 2014

There is cautious optimism from tourism operators on Tonga's Vava'u islands following news that Fiji Airways may resume flights to Vava'u.

Tonga's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Samiu Vaipulu, says the government has given Fiji Airways consent to operate the route.

Fiji Airways says it has received an expression of interest from the Tongan government, which it is now evaluating.

Tourism operators spoken to on Vava'u say there has been talk about the resumption of an international route for years, and some do not want to get their hopes too high.

The manager of Hilltop Hotel, Vaasi Kupu, says if it does go ahead, it will be great news for all operators.

"Last year, it was not a good year for us, and again for this year, we don't have much booking yet for our season. But this story that Fiji Air will be connecting straight to Vava'u, it's very good for us. We are all looking forward to it."

The manager of Hilltop Hotel in Vava'u, Vaasi Kupu.