Flight from Sydney attempts to land THREE times in Fiji then diverted

by · Mail Online

A plane from Sydney to Fiji was forced to divert to Tonga after the effects of Tropical Cyclone Vaianu foiled three attempts to land in Nadi.

Fiji Airways flight FJ914 reached airspace above Fiji on Monday but abandoned landing there, instead turn towards the Tongan capital of Nuku'alofa, according to FlightRadar24.

'There were basically people spewing up and down the aisles,' a passenger told ABC News.

'Fortunately, my kids were pretty good; they sat there half asleep or they were entertaining themselves.'

Another said they were grateful the pilots chose to divert to Tonga after their third landing attempt during the 'hairy' journey.

'There were a few yelps and there was a bit of motion sickness going on up there, which was obviously not ideal,' she said.

'The wind shear was pretty crazy up there, so I'm glad that they made a decision to move on.'

The Daily Mail has contacted Fiji Airways for comment. 

A Fiji Airways plane from Sydney was forced to divert to Tonga (stock image)
It is understood the plane attempted to land at Nadi in Fiji three time
The decision was a precaution due to Tropical Cyclone Vaianu

In a written statement on the airline's website on Wednesday, it said staff continue to 'closely monitor conditions and will adjust its operations as required to ensure safety'.

'The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority. We sincerely thank our guests for their patience and understanding during this time,' it said.

Warnings have been issued to Australians about travelling to Fiji after category three system Tropical Cyclone Vaianu hit the region this week. 

Smartraveller issued an update warning about the extreme impacts for those in the area which are 'bringing heavy rain, flash flooding and strong winds'.

'Flights may be delayed or cancelled, and essential services may be disrupted. Know your accommodation’s evacuation plan,' the warning read.

'If a cyclone is approaching your area, find your nearest shelter and follow the advice of local authorities. 

'If you’re travelling in affected areas, contact your airline, tour operator or accommodation provider to check how your travel plans may be impacted.'

As of 1pm local time, the Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office confirmed 46 evacuation centres are active, welcoming 1470 evacuees. 

A second storm, Tropical Cyclone Maila, is tracking off the Solomon Islands and could hit Papua New Guinea.

The category three system could still hit Australia.