Airline reassures passengers

Press, 7 September 1989, Page 7

Airline reassures passengers

By

CULLEN SMITH

Australian Airlines, the biggest of

the three domestic airlines hit by the pilots’ dispute in Australia, has moved to reassure its New Zealand passengers caught by the stoppage. Travel agents were being offered advice and help to deal with stranded holidaymakers and business managers, the South Island sales manager for Australian Airlines, Mr lan Rivers, said yesterday. “People with major commitments

are getting through with the use of international airlines and a Royal Brunei charter jet,” Mr Rivers said. Australian Airlines’ 600- pilots were among the 1600 who resigned en masse on August 24 in support of pay claims of 29.5 per cent, stranding thousands of passengers throughout the country. Christchurch travel agents report that many clients are having difficulties in rearranging transport, with some cutting trips short.

Australian business people have been flying to New Zealand to connect with flights to other Australian cities. Mr Rivers said that one-fifth of travellers were reaching their destinations.

Passengers intending to travel domestically in Australia should approach Australian Airlines or their own travel agent for advice on the availability of alternative flights.