Commentary – The Tongan government’s handling of the Lulutai Airlines Expressions of Interest (EOI) process has become a matter of growing concern, with delays, sudden changes, and questions over the airline’s ability to properly assess multi-million-dollar bids.
What was initially presented as a straightforward process—inviting private operators to take over the controversial domestic airline—has now stretched beyond a month with no clear resolution.
The government had set an original deadline for early July, but after weeks of silence, Public Enterprises Minister Piveni Piukala announced an unexpected two-week extension to “refine the selection criteria.”
That extension period has since passed, yet there has been no further update, leaving bidders and the public in the dark.
Minister Piukala explained that the extension was needed to distinguish between parties interested in operating the airline versus those merely seeking to buy shares—a fair clarification in theory. However, the lack of communication since then suggests deeper issues in the assessment process.
Questions Over Lulutai’s Capacity to Evaluate Bids
Kaniva News has learned that some bidders have expressed frustration with what they describe as an inexperienced and unprofessional evaluation process.
Sources indicate that there have been repeated back-and-forth queries between Lulutai Airlines and potential operators, with some bidders questioning whether the airline’s management has the expertise to properly assess complex commercial proposals.
This is not a minor issue. Lulutai Airlines has been a financial burden on Tonga’s government, plagued by operational struggles and controversies since its inception. Handing over its operations to a competent private operator could be a step toward stability—but only if the selection process is credible.
Transparency and Trust at Stake
The extended silence since the supposed “refinement” of criteria raises legitimate concerns:
- Why the delay? If the extension was only for two weeks, why has there been no update?
- Who is assessing the bids? Does Lulutai Airlines—a struggling state-owned entity—have the necessary expertise to evaluate multi-million-dollar proposals?
- Is the process fair? Bidders reportedly dissatisfied with the handling of their submissions may question whether the playing field is level.
Call In NZ, Aus Help
Given the ongoing concerns about Lulutai Airlines’ ability to properly evaluate bids, wouldn’t it make sense for the Tongan government to request an independent assessment team from New Zealand or Australia?
Both countries have previously shown willingness to assist Tonga in aviation matters.
An independent team of assessors from either country could bring much-needed transparency, technical expertise, and credibility to the bidding process.
Given the millions of dollars at stake—and the importance of ensuring Lulutai’s future stability—such a move would reassure bidders, the public, and international observers that the selection is being conducted fairly and professionally.
The current delays and lack of clarity only deepen suspicions about the process. If the government is serious about finding the best operator for Lulutai, external assistance should be a priority.
The Tongan government must act swiftly to restore confidence in this process. If the goal is truly to bring transparency and better management to Lulutai Airlines, then the evaluation must be conducted professionally, with clear timelines and accountability.
