Bonza has entered administration after its aircraft provider repossessed its aircraft, leaving customers stranded across Australia.
Customers have been left stranded across the country, after Bonza suddenly cancelled all flights yesterday morning.
The airline issued a statement late yesterday confirming it was now under administration. Discussions continue regarding its access to aircraft and whether the business can remain viable.
“Bonza has temporarily suspended services due to be operated today (Tuesday 30th April), as discussions are currently underway regarding the ongoing viability of the business,” the airline said in a statement.
“We apologise to our customers who are impacted by this and we’re working as quickly as possible to determine a way forward that ensures there is ongoing competition in the Australian domestic aviation market.”
A notice confirming the administration has been filed with the Australian Securities &Investments Commission (ASIC).
The AFR reports that Richard Albarran, Kathleen Vouris, Brent Kijurina and Cameron Shaw from Hall Chadwick have been appointed voluntary administrators.
Bonza had been one of the more reliable airlines based on monthly government data for on-time departures and arrivals.
Major airlines step up to help Bonza customers
Fortunately for customers stranded, Virgin Australia, Qantas and Jetstar have stepped up to assist in getting customers to their destinations.
Both Jetstar and Qantas are offering customers who are stranded seats at no cost if they have availability.
Of the 36 routes Bonza flew, many are not serviced by the major airlines. The Qantas group flew just six of these, including:
Melbourne to Gold Coast (Jetstar)
Melbourne to Sunshine Coast (Jetstar)
Avalon to Gold Coast (Jetstar)
Gold Coast to Cairns (Jetstar)
Melbourne to Mildura (QantasLink)
Melbourne to Alice Springs (QantasLink)
This was a major selling point and differentiator for Bonza when it launched just over a year ago. But it’s now a nightmare for customers trying to get home.
Virgin Australia says Bonza passengers can contact their Guest Contact Centre on 13 67 89 to find an available seat.
Customers seeking to book Jetstar seats can contact Jetstar on Live Chat or 13 15 38. Call 13 13 13 to book seats with Qantas.