Peau Vava'u, one of Tonga's two domestic airlines, which due to fire damage to their corporate offices in November 2006 has been grounded, announced today that they will recommence commercial operation on Monday 14 May 2007.

Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tele Faletau commented that evaluation and work has been on-going since November to get the airline back in the air.

The key issues facing Peau Vava'u have not been the loss of their corporate offices, but more importantly the loss of their manual suite which dictates their operating procedures and in turn, ensures safety both on the ground and in the air.

The airline had maintained off-site backups of their key data which had assisted in having the manuals reproduced to their original status as of November 2006. A further delay in getting the airline back in the skies has been caused by the abrupt cessation of revenue sources due to the grounding in November and the airline has incurred substantial costs since November just to maintain the possibility of re-commencing operations.

Mr. Faletau further commented that the airline's Board of Directors have secured adequate financing for the airline to "gear itself back up to operating standards" and ensure a smooth financially stable return to commercial operations.

In preparation for their return to operations, Peau Vava'u brought their leased Jetstream 41 aircraft back to Tonga in February. Peau Vava'u told us that the Jetstream is a critical part of their operation, providing a fast and comfortable service between the islands of the Kingdom of Tonga.

The airline will be publishing a new schedule effective from May 14, today via their website and direct distribution to agents and operators. Both office and on-line sales will be open for reservations on Monday 26th March.

In closing, the CEO of Peau Vava'u noted that Peau Vava'u customers can expect a new and improved experience with the recommencement of operations, saying "whilst the events of November and their subsequent effect on the airline are most regrettable, the airline has taken this opportunity to "re-think" and restructure the company and operations to provide for a better customer experience and a more viable operation, thus securing Tonga's domestic aviation services for the future." Peau Vava'u, 22/03/07.