Fiji Airways caused significant disruption at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Passengers traveling to Nadi (NAN), Fiji, experienced delays and a cancellation due to mechanical issues with the airline’s Airbus A330-200 aircraft. The flight, FJ871, was scheduled for December 17, 2024, but delays led to its cancellation after multiple attempts to fix the problem.
The airline confirmed that the Airbus A330-200, registered DQ-FJU, had not been repaired. As a result, Fiji Airways sent a replacement aircraft later that evening. The flight is now expected to depart at 10:12 PM local time, and it usually takes over 11 hours. Passengers waited without food and water while the airline worked on the issue, which added to their frustration.
After the cancellation, Fiji Airways provided accommodations, including hotel stays, transportation, and meal reimbursements. Some passengers chose to book their own travel arrangements to reach their destinations. The airline has not announced any compensation for the inconvenience yet.
The exact nature of the technical problem with the Airbus A330-200 remains unknown. The aircraft has served Fiji Airways for over a decade and typically carries up to 273 passengers. The airline operates a fleet of A330 and A350 aircraft for long-haul flights.
The busy winter season contributes to disruptions, with many airlines experiencing high passenger volumes. The holiday rush, starting on December 18, will likely lead to more delays and cancellations at airports worldwide.
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