New Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands prioritises resolving Solomon Airlines service to Brisbane

Australia's High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Peter Hooton who was received yesterday in Honiara by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, says he will make it a priority to look into the issue of Solomon Airlines services between Honiara and Brisbane via Santo in Vanuatu.

Australia is said to have refused to grant Solomon Airlines clearance to fly in and out of Brisbane via Santo.

The decision has been attributed to the continuing strained diplomatic relations between Australia and Solomon Islands.

It is believed to have the potential of crippling Solomon Airlines, which has been dependent on its international sector.

But after presenting his letter of introduction to Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, High Commissioner Hooton said he would look into the matter.

"I'm very conscious of the importance which Solomon Islands and Solomon Airlines attribute to that particular route, and I will certainly make it a priority to look into that issue and see what might be done."

Source: SIBC