Bonza enters administration, flights cancelled

Bonza Airlines, an ultra low cost airline in Australia has temporarily suspended services for the 30th April, amidst ongoing discussions regarding the viability of the business. This move caused thousands of its travellers to be stranded, with some customers flocking to the airline’s social media pages to voice their discontent with the cancellation.

Launched last year in January to much fanfare as a ‘new and only independent low-cost airline enabling Australians to explore more of their own backyard for less’, Bonza Airlines embarked on a rather ambitious expansion plan initially. The airline initially set its sights on a ambitious 27 routes flying to 17 domestic destinations with a fleet of 4 Boeing 737 aircraft. The airline also has prided itself on saving passengers more than AUD125 million in its first year of flying. 

In view of the sudden flight cancellations, the Transport Department of Australia has established a hotline for the stranded travellers, with the line operating until 10pm on the 30th of April. Furthermore, Australian airlines Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia have all mentioned that they would be offering complimentary seats to customers who were affected by the Bonza cancellation, subject to availability of seats on the routes. 

We will immediately support any passengers stranded mid-journey by offering complimentary seats on Virgin Australia-operated flights to the airport nearest to their final planned Bonza destination. For those at an airport please see your nearest customer service representative or call our Guest Contact Centre on 13 67 89.

Virgin Australia

Beginning of the End?

According to an internal note to staff seen by the Financial Review, Founder Tim Jordan mentioned that the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircrafts have been repossessed. Bonza Airlines is also currently under voluntary administration, with Hall Chadwick appointed as the administrator for both its operating and holding companies.

We have been informed this morning that effective 0300 today that all our aircraft have had repossession proceedings had been commenced by AIP Capital, the aircraft lessor. 

Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza airlines

At the time of writing, one of Bonza’s aircraft is currently flying with Flair airlines, while the other 5 aircrafts are all grounded respectively. More information will be added as the fate of the aircrafts become clear.