Repatriation flight

At a press conference Monday, the Minister for Health,Dr ‘Amelia Tu’ipulotu said they would evaluate the effectiveness of the processes, procedures, and activities that were undertaken, and also look at what gaps need to be addressed before the second mission.

“Although the evaluation will be undertaken after the 14 days quarantine, Dr 'Ofanoa and his team also currently undertakes daily assessments and addresses issues as they arise," she said.

Ministry of Health CEO, Dr Siale ‘Akau’ola said the most important thing is that Tonga remains CoViD-19 free.

The charter flight will leave Fiji at 10am (local time) and will arrive at Fua’amotu Airport in the afternoon.

A government statement said all passengers must produce COVID-19 test certificates before boarding.

About fifty passengers that will board the flight are made up of medical staff who are pursuing further education in Fiji with their family members, together with students and Government officials.

An Air New Zealand flight from Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa to Auckland has been scheduled for next Wednesday, 15 April.

This came as a number of New Zealand citizens and residents had reported to be stuck in Tonga due to border closures and national lockdowns.

The flight is available for those wishing to return to New Zealand, but was subject to the Government of Tonga's approval.

New Zealand citizens and residents are urged to get in touch with the airline directly, or their travel agent, to indicate their interest in boarding the flight.