by Mindy Aguon

Guam - As a result of the devastating earthquake and the tsunami in Japan the Guam International Airport Authority is seeing a surge in passengers that have been diverted or returned to the territory. According to GIAA Spokesperson Rolenda Faauamalie, efforts are being taken to accommodate the approximately 1,430 diverted and returning passengers on outbound flights to Japan.

The Airport Authority has extended vendor operation hours to service passengers and provide as much assistance and comfort to terminal occupants. Travel agents and the ground transport operators as well as airport ambassadors are also extending services to the passengers as they wait to for hotel accommodations and get the status of their departing flights/air transport arrangements.

"The Airport team of airlines, vendors, tour agents, ground transport operators, regulatory officials and all terminal employees are doing all possible to ease the distress of the situation. We are mindful of the destruction wreaked by the earthquake and tsunamis affecting Japan, and will do all we can to assist in the recovery from our side, here on Guam," stated Airport Manager Mary C. Torres.

A pair of Jetstar flights from Australia that were en route to Japan were diverted to Guam. Meantime outbound flights to Japan have been delayed until further notice. Three flights that left for Japan for Guam earlier today have since returned back to Guam safely.

Passengers are asked to contact their respective airlines for further information.