Rival airlines’ surprise move after Bonza collapse

Not long after Bonza announced it had gone into voluntary administration, three of the country’s biggest carriers all did the same thing.

Three of the country’s biggest airlines have sprung into action to help passengers and affected staff from the Bonza collapse.

On Tuesday, the 14-month old budget airline announced it has entered into voluntary administration after it suddenly slashed flights across the country leaving many stranded.

“Bonza has temporarily suspended services due to be operated today, as discussions are currently underway regarding the ongoing viability of the business,” CEO Tim Jordan said.

In a further statement sent to news.com.au, Mr Burton apologised to customers impacted by the airline’s sudden wave of cancellations.

“We apologise to our customers who are impacted by this and we are working as quickly as possible to determine a way forward that ensures there is ongoing competition in the Australian aviation market.”

Bonza entered into voluntary administration on Tuesday evening after it suddenly slashed flights across the country in the morning, leaving many stranded. Picture: Lachie Millard

Tracy Hilbert booked a flight from Melbourne to Gladstone to be with her family following the passing of her father on Monday. In a state of shock, she arrived at Melbourne Airport to find out her early morning flight on Tuesday had been cancelled.

Rival budget airline Jetstar and Virgin Australia stepped in to help her get to her destination without charging Ms Hilbert for a ticket.

Australian woman Tracy Hilbert was in tears on the Today show after she missed her flight. She was on the way to be with family after the passing of her father on Monday.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Jetstar, which is owned by Qantas, said: “We understand today’s news about Bonza will have a significant impact on many people’s travel plans.”

“For Bonza customers who are due to travel today or who are stuck away from home, Jetstar and Qantas will assist by providing flights at no cost where there are seats available.”

Qantas also released a statement offering employment support to Bonza staff affected by the airline’s collapse.

Jetstar and Virgin Australia stepped in and got her to Gladstone without charging her a fare.

“We extend our thoughts to our aviation industry colleagues and their families – from pilots and cabin crew to flight planners and operations controllers,” it read.

“If Bonza employees would like to discuss recruitment opportunities within Jetstar and Qantas, particularly in specialised fields which are unique to aviation, we’ve set up a dedicated page on the Jetstar careers website.

Rival airlines Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar all stepped in to offer assistance for stranded passengers.

“For any customers with a cancelled Bonza flight on a route we operate, to make sure you’re not further out of pocket, you can fly with us at no cost where we have seats available.”

Virgin Australia also extended its hand to staff seeking employment, describing the airline’s collapse as “sad”.

“When Bonza started in Australia, we welcomed its launch because competition makes us all better and benefits consumers. We are saddened to hear of Bonza’s current situation and the impacts on its people, customers and partners,” the statement read.

The three airlines have also offered employment support to affected Bonza staff.

“We will do what we can to support Bonza’s employees by prioritising them for any current and future roles at Virgin Australia, and encourage them to contact our careers team at [e-mail] if they wish.”

The airline also offered support to any passengers stranded mid-journey with complimentary seats, where available.

The three airlines’ quick response has been applauded by the aviation industry and Aussies alike with many branding it “the spirit of Australia”.

Virgin said it was ‘saddened’ by rival airline Bonza’s situation.

It comes as Bonza was forced to cancel multiple flights across both Queensland and Melbourne on Tuesday with the carrier’s CEO in discussions around the “viability” of the business, before announcing it has gone into voluntary administration.

Prior to Tuesday’s public downfall, there has been mounting speculation surrounding the airline’s financial position and possible repossession of leased aircraft.

According to reports, it is understood that Bonza’s financial backer, Miami-based firm 777 Partners, have called restructuring specialists KordaMentha for financial advice about its ongoing operations in Australia.

However cabin crew members claim the writing has been on the wall for some time now, with staff cost-cutting measures and “bandaid” solutions present for months.

The administrators have established a hotline for customers for any queries they may have on 03 8678 1600.

– with Vanessa Brown