Australia’s newest budget airline, Bonza, has gone into administration after abruptly canceling all of its flights on Tuesday (April 30). According to a report from the BBC Thousands of passengers across Australia are now in a difficult position.
The airline, which has been operating since last year, has been facing financial difficulties. Aviation is one of the most important industries in Australia, dominated by Qantas and Virgin Australia. Bonza’s aircraft, a Boeing 737 Max fleet, were seized by creditors on Tuesday, local media reported.
Bonza airline apologizes to passengers
Bonza commented on the situation in a statement: “We apologize to our customers who have been affected by this and we are working as quickly as possible to determine a path forward that ensures there is continued competition in the Australian aviation market gives.”
A disappointed passenger, Mel Watkins, said Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) said she was “absolutely devastated” after her flight was canceled.
Qantas and Virgin Australia offer help
Qantas Group and Virgin Australia, which together account for 95 percent of Australia’s national domestic aviation market, offered help to anyone stranded mid-trip.
While Australian passengers are stuck at airports, the British are partying. In less than half an hour, a group of tourists managed to drink the entire alcohol supply on a holiday plane.