Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has confirmed that runway problems in Labasa are still affecting flights, forcing airlines to reduce passenger numbers.
Mr Kamikamica said that during one of his visits to the North, he was informed his luggage might arrive later because of the aircraft’s weight limits.
Businessman Bobby Khan said ATR 72 planes were no longer able to fly in at full capacity.
“The ATR 72 never, ever comes in at full load,” he said.
“They have cut the passengers from 72 to 40. Only 40 passengers are landing.”
Mr Khan said for the past three months, flights had been restricted because of the damaged runway.
“Some people take international flights and have issues here.
“This has led to people missing their planes and having to pay hundreds of dollars for another flight.”
Less than a year ago, The Fiji Times reported that runway upgrade works were underway in Labasa as part of a World Bank-funded $10 million project for five outer island airports.
