Fiji Airways has leased a Boeing 737-800 aircraft from Miami Air to cover some of its schedules due to the temporary grounding of its two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The chartered Miami Air aircraft will operate some flights on behalf of Fiji Airways between Nadi and Auckland, Apia, Christchurch and Brisbane (subject to regulatory approval).

The aircraft has 166 Economy Class seats in a single cabin configuration and the leased aircraft will operate with its own cabin crew and pilots, with a Fiji Airways Purser or Senior Flight Attendant onboard to oversee the cabin experience.

Fiji Airways General Manager Corporate Communications, Shane Hussein said they made the decision to lease an aircraft for the upcoming peak period to limit any disruptions to guests’ travel plans.

He said while the airline recognises that the onboard experience and facilities will differ from its usual offering, it will do everything possible to ensure that guests continue to enjoy a comfortable experience.

Fiji Airways will contact Business Class guests booked on flights which will now be operated by the leased aircraft to provide travel options.

Miami Air is a charter company based out of Miami in the United States, and has leased aircraft to airlines like British Airways, Air France, and TUI, among others.

By Reginald Chandar