Memo Orders Grounding of Airlines Domestic Flights

A memo has ordered the grounding of all Solomon Airlines domestic flights.

Speaking to Solomon Times, a reliable source within the Airlines confirmed that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Solomon Airlines, Captain Ron Sumsum, issued the memo.

"The memo did not contain a specific time period for grounding of the fleet," the source said.

The source added that many passengers, and some tourists, have had to be turned away because of the flight cancellation.

"It could be just for a day, or much longer," the source said. "This may affect international flights if it goes on for long."

Grounding of domestic flights is the latest in the on-going Solomon Airlines saga, in relation to the stand-off between ICSI and Solomon Airlines Board.

Attempts to get a comment from Mr. Sumsum were unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, sources within ICSI, the investment arm of the government who owns 90 percent shares in Solomon Airlines, confirmed the grounding of the fleet.

It is understood the two boards are discussing the matter.