First Aid Flights Arrive in Tonga After Big Volcano Eruption

First Aid Flights Arrive in Tonga After Big Volcano Eruption
The Prime Minister of Tonga, Siaosi Sovaleni, (R), joins the Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, Rachael Moore, to watch the arrival of the first Royal Australian Air Force C-17A Globemaster III aircraft at Fua'amotu International Airport near Nukuʻalofa, Tonga, on Jan. 20, 2022. Australian Defence Force via AP
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WELLINGTON, New Zealand—The first flights carrying fresh water and other aid to Tonga finally arrived Thursday after the Pacific nation’s main airport runway was cleared of ash left by a huge volcanic eruption.

New Zealand and Australia each sent military transport planes that were carrying water containers, kits for temporary shelters, generators, hygiene supplies and communications equipment. The Australian plane also had a special sweeper to help keep the runway clear.