National carrier Lulutai Airlines has been grounded following serious concerns raised by Tonga’s Civil Aviation Division (CAD) over aircraft maintenance and safety standards.
The CAD confirmed to local media that the suspension was in response to aviation-related issues involving the government-sponsored airline’s fleet.
Specifically, the airworthiness certificates for two aircraft—Twin Otter (A3-KLT) and A3-SPV—have been revoked due to non-compliance with required maintenance standards.
Acting Director of Civil Aviation reportedly said that the suspension was necessary to ensure public safety, citing the airline’s failure to meet the conditions of a Part 145 maintenance organisation certificate.
No timeline has been provided for when the suspension might be lifted.
Meanwhile, flight services are continuing through an aircraft previously hired from Chatham Aviation, helping to maintain limited connectivity between Vava’u and Tongatapu while Lulutai remains grounded.
It is understood that the Minister for Public Enterprises and Lulutai Airlines officials have been holding urgent meetings since the suspension was announced.
On Saturday, Lulutai Airlines issued a public notice informing passengers of flight cancellations to and from Vava‘u, Ha‘apai, and ‘Eua. The announcement read:
“Please be advised that due to unforeseen circumstances, all flights scheduled for today on Twin Otter (A3-KLT) and A3-SPV have been cancelled.”
The suspension has disrupted domestic travel across Tonga, with many passengers left stranded or forced to seek alternative arrangements.
