Fiji Airways flight diverted to Tonga due to Cyclone Vaianu's severe weather

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:14:00 +0200

A Fiji Airways flight from Sydney to Nadi, Fiji, was forced to divert to Tonga after Severe Tropical Cyclone Vaianu made safe landing impossible. The aircraft attempted to land three times at Nadi International Airport before pilots decided to abort the approach because of dangerous wind shear and turbulent conditions. Passengers on board described the experience as intense and unsettling, with several suffering motion sickness as the plane repeatedly attempted to land. Fiji Airways confirmed that the diversion was made as a precaution in accordance with its safety protocols, emphasizing that passenger safety always takes priority. Around 80 passengers were accommodated at the Tanoa International Dateline Hotel in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, where staff provided meals and refreshments to ease travelers’ stress. Fiji Airways also apologized for the disruption and stated the flight would continue to Nadi once weather conditions improved. Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Vaianu brought heavy rainfall,