The Macau SAR Government is concerned about VIVA Macau’s suspension of flight service due to operational problems and has taken emergency measures to assist over 300 immediately affected passengers. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) was notified by the Macau International Airport that VIVA Macau, who failed to settle its fuel charge, has delayed and cancelled respectively its services to Jakarta and Tokyo today, causing over 300 passengers to be stranded at the airport. The SAR Government is very concerned about the impact this incident has on the passengers as well as the aviation and tourism sectors, and has taken immediate measures to assist the affected passengers. Tourism Crisis Management Office (GGCT) and CAA held a press conference regarding VIVA Macau’s suspension of flight service to announce the government’s contingency measures and the latest development of the incident to the public. President of the Civil Aviation Authority Chan Weng Hong expressed that the SAR Government has activated the emergency response mechanism and coordinated related departments, Macau International Airport and relevant entities for urgent arrangements. Chan Weng Hong pointed out that in order to offer timely assistance to passengers immediately affected by the incident, the SAR Government has coordinated with the fuel company to enable the flight which was scheduled to depart for Jakarta this afternoon (26) to take off at 10pm. Regarding the flight scheduled to depart for Tokyo this afternoon, the SAR Government has demanded VIVA Macau to fulfill its commercial obligation and VIVA Macau has promised to provide hotel accommodation for the stranded passengers. The SAR Government urges all passengers holding VIVA Macau tickets who have not yet embarked on their journey to check on the latest situation before heading to the airport. Chan expressed that the SAR Government will closely monitor the development of the situation and continue to provide assistance to affected passengers through the emergency response mechanism. If necessary, resolute measures will be taken when appropriate to assist affected passengers. Chan emphasized that, as a responsible commercial entity, it is compulsory to cater well for its passengers. The SAR Government is deeply disappointed and expresses regret with VIVA Macau’s suspension of flight service due to operational problems having affected a large number of passengers. Updated information about the incident will be released on Tourism Crisis Management Office’s website: www.ggct.gov.mo
