The debate was sparked when passengers on their way to the US were left stranded on two occasions due to the Air New Zealand plane being unable to land due to the runway lights being out.

It was the recurrence of the light issue that prompted passengers to voice their concerns.

Pacific Blue has weighed in on the issue with senior sales consultant Tema Tonga saying her company will only compensate passengers when there is a problem with their aircraft.

Miss Tonga says the Pacific Blue Airline policy states that the company can only compensate passengers if they are not able to fly at the appointed time due to a problem on the airlines end.

She says that any problem that is outside of the airlines control such as the failed runway lights or a change of flight is the responsibility of Tonga Airport Limited or TAL.

However, in a recent interview with TALs Deputy Director Viliami Ma'ake maintained if compensation is to be paid out it is channelled through the airline's agency.

eTonga Tonga News