A group of pilgrims from Fiji, who travelled to the holy land to commemorate the Feast of the Tabernacle in September, have defaulted in their instalment payments due in December 2023.
This has been revealed by Fiji Airways in a statement.
Fiji Airways said full payment on the outstanding balance of the charter price is expected in the coming weeks; however, there is ongoing communications with the group.
Fiji Airways clarified that the ‘deed of forbearance’ signed between the two parties was not signed or registered on the ‘Personal Property Securities Register’ – due to the fact that this does not create a security interest in personal property capable of registration.
The national carrier also has refuted claims made against the company and its board directors regarding the chartered flight to Israel from Fiji and back, lodged with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, based on the legality of the deed.
Fiji Airways said that: “The allegations focus on the legality of a ‘Deed of Forbearance’ and the guarantee entered into between Fiji Airways and the charterer, has faced challenges meeting its payment obligations in connection with the charter flights.”
Fiji Airways said the deed was drafted by the company’s legal counsel, and was a prudent and lawful measure taken to protect the company’s interests, and ensure a viable payment plan.
“Fiji Airways re-emphasises that the decision to operate the charter flights to Israel was based on commercial considerations. A vetting process in relation to the charterer and the various guarantors was undertaken, which included consideration of the charterer’s history of operating successful international charters and making timely payments, and the company’s management and board of directors made an informed business judgement to proceed with the charter flights.”
It said the company stands by its ethical business practices, and is taking legal advice in respect to the false and defamatory allegations.
“In the meantime, Fiji Airways remains committed to transparency, and will cooperate fully with any lawful investigation initiated by FICAC,” the statement said.
