Some passengers travelling from the Top End were given less than 48 hours notice of changes to their flights.
Territorians have criticised Virgin Australia after last-minute flight revisions saw many looking for costly alternatives to see loved ones interstate.
“I think it’s obvious that people would like to get back to their families before Christmas Day, so it’s frustrating to have the flight land on the day instead,” she told SBS News.“Another friend of mine had her flight moved from 23 December to 27 December and had to buy a new set of return flights costing up to $1,500 with a different airline.
“I understand that airlines change their flights a couple of hours here and there but to change it over 24 hours later is not reasonable especially during this time,” said Ms Nichols. “I know there are people far worse off, but these cancellations and revisions aren’t because of health, it’s because Virgin have a staffing issue.Family members who had Sinopharm or Sputnik vaccines remain 'locked out' of Australia
“I know at least two more people who had the same thing happen, but they had to get back for something specific in Dubbo so had to frantically book new flights.”“We were probably going to spend Christmas in Darwin until they announced the easing of border restrictions,” she said.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
NT eyes more lockdowns where vaccine rates are ‘unacceptably’ lowNorthern Territory acting Chief Minister Nicole Manison says authorities will still use lockdowns in communities with vaccination rates that lag the country.
Read more »
Omicron cases confirmed in COVID-positive travellers in town near Uluru, as NT records 11 new casesTesting has confirmed two men who arrived in Yulara on a flight from Brisbane have the Omicron strain of the virus, while nine of the new local cases recorded today are linked to Tennant Creek.
Read more »
Australia Christmas gift guide 2021: 160 good gift ideas, including last-minute optionsFrom presents that give back to edible treats, Guardian Australia and a team of guest editors select the best gifts and shopping options to please everyone from kids to chronic grumps this Christmas
Read more »
Christmas could be cancelled for millions as UK weighs up Omicron restrictionsBritain’s health minister has declined to rule out the chance of further COVID-19 restrictions before Christmas, saying the spread of the Omicron variant is a very fast-moving situation. 7NEWS
Read more »
What deep trough developing off WA means for Christmas weatherA maximum temperature of 42C has been forecast for Perth, which could smash the previous record for hottest Christmas Day in 1968. Read on to find out what's in store for the other states and territories! 9News
Read more »