The airline has suspended flights to Christmas Island until the Kiribati government upgrades the runway that was built during World War II.
Although it had some resurfacing work done three years ago, Air Pacific said the crushed coral and concrete runway now has severe cracks in the surface that are starting to spread.
Air Pacific CEO John Campbell said the airline has no other option due to the risk of damage to the aircraft jeopardizing the safety of passengers.
“It’s something that we really do regret because we’re the only airline serving Christmas Island,” he said. “It’s one of the most isolated spots on earth and the withdraw of this flight will create genuine hardship for the people on Christmas Island, real access problems and difficulties for the import and export of food stuff there.”
