Air Niugini suspends Tokua flights

AIR Niugini flights to Tokua in East New Britain province, have been suspended indefinitely due to the change in wind direction (north-westerly winds) causing volcanic ash to fall in the aerodrome and surrounding areas.
In a statement from the airline yesterday, the suspension came into effect after midday yesterday and would continue until further notice.
While flights PX 205 and PX 817 did fly to Tokua yesterday morning, the two afternoon flights, PX 214 from Lae to Rabaul and PX 253 from Buka, were cancelled.
Air Niugini said all Rabaul overnights were now extended to Kavieng, New Ireland province.
Meanwhile, the air space over Tokua airport is being monitored on a daily basis and any decision to resume flights will depend on the prevailing winds dispersing volcanic emission from the aerodome.
The airline management reassured that all passengers who had been confirmed to travel to Rabaul were now advised to check the nearest Air Niugini sales office for further updates.
All changes due to these disruptions would be made free of charge.
Air Niugini regrets the inconvenience caused for the traveling public, which is beyond the airline’s control.