19 Dec 2017

Airlines co-operate as Nadi dispute continues

8:58 pm on 19 December 2017

Airlines are working together to keep operations going at Fiji's Nadi airport where workers are engaged in a dispute.

Air Niugini and Fiji Airways parked at Nadi International Airport in Fiji

Air Niugini and Fiji Airways parked at Nadi International Airport in Fiji Photo: RNZI/Sally Round

Workers with Airline Terminal Services at Fiji's main international airport remain locked out after refusing to sign a declaration that they were wrong in walking out to attend a meeting on Saturday.

ATS provides catering, baggage handling and engineering services at the airport.

A spokesperson for Air New Zealand said the airline did not use ATS for its in-flight catering in Fiji.

She said the airline had been able to manage the situation with its own staff and by working with Fiji Airways and she said there had been no flight cancellations.

Airlines, including Air New Zealand, and agencies working at the airport have agreed to co-operate to maintain operations at the airport, according to a statement given to local media.

Fiji Airways advised its passengers to eat before they travel or bring their own food on board.

Meanwhile, The National Secretary of the Federated Airline Staff Association Vilikesa Naulumatua said Saturday's meeting was to address legitimate concerns including the handling of sexual harrassment claims.

"Currently there are two reported cases, and others which have not really been taken seriously by the company where they have a policy in place," he said.

"We have a good number of women also in the company, and some of the things that happen, the management cover it up and do not follow through with procedures in investigating such claims."