By Samantha Semoso – EM TV Online
Solomon Islands National carrier, Solomon Airlines has finally commenced operations of its long awaited Honiara-Sydney direct service. This is a major milestone for the Airline and a watershed moment for the country’s business and tourism Industry.
On board the flight to mark this special event were a host of VIP passengers including the Minister of Culture and Tourism for Solomon Islands, The New Zealand High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, Marion Crenshaw and Solomon Airlines’ chairman, Denton Rarawa which arrived into Sydney International Airport on schedule at 1830 hours on Monday.
Also on the flight were senior officials of the Civil Aviation, Solomon Islands Tourism, Visitors Bureau, the Solomon Airlines’ Board of Directors and representatives of the Solomon Islands Business Community.
The VIP officials were welcomed at a cocktail function hosted by Sydney Airport before proceeding on to the Mercury Sydney International Airport Hotel where a formal celebratory dinner took place, Hosted by Solomon Airlines.
Solomon Airlines General manager Operations & Commercial, Gus Kraus said the Inauguration of the new service represented a pivotal moment in Solomon Airlines’ proud 53 year history.
“This new service not only paves the way for an even closer relationship between the Solomon Islands and Australia, it also has great significance for the prospect of increased trade and business links between our two countries,” said Kraus.
Welcoming Solomon Airlines to the Harbour City, Sydney Airport Managing Director and CEO, Kerrie Mather said the new route has been well timed to offer a direct service from Sydney to Honiara for travellers looking for a tropical winter getaway.
“It also provides more choice for passengers, expanding Sydney Airport’s network of International destinations from 44 to 45,” he said.
