TONGA’S Lulutai Airlines has been grounded after serious safety concerns. The Tongan Civil Aviation Division (CAD) confirmed to local media that flights had been suspended in response to aviation-related issues involving the government-sponsored airline’s fleet. The airworthiness certificates for two aircraft—De Havilland Twin Otter, registration and Harbin Y-12, A3-SPV—have been revoked due to non-compliance with required maintenance standards. No timeline has been provided for when the suspension might be lifted. Meanwhile, services are continuing through an aircraft previously hired from Chatham Aviation, helping to maintain limited connectivity between Vava’u and Tongatapu while Lulutai remains grounded. It is understood that the Minister for Public Enterprises and Lulutai Airlines officials have held urgent meetings since the suspension. On Saturday, the airline issued a public notice informing passengers of flight cancellations to and from Vava‘u, Ha‘apai, and ‘Eua. The announcement read: “Please be advised that due to unforeseen circumstances, all flights scheduled for today on Twin Otter (A3-KLT) and A3-SPV have been cancelled.” The suspension has disrupted domestic travel across Tonga, with many passengers left stranded or forced to seek alternative arrangements.