Four die in clashes over airfare price increases

Stock photo, New Caledonia: Rex

Four people have been shot dead in clashes over the prices of air tickets in New Caledonia.

Uprisings broke out in the island of Mare in the South Pacific archipelago at the weekend over fare increases of domestic flights, according to Travel Weekly.

Users of Air Caledonie had blocked airports in Mare, the Lifou, and Ile des Pins since 22 July over the airline's new pricing policy.

As well as four deaths, 23 people were injured in the clashes on the island in the French overseas territory, which is home to around 6,000 people.

High Commissioner Albert Dupuy told news.smh.com.au: 'Mare has lived a nightmare day. Two platoons of police were sent there and hopefully calm will return tonight. It is a tragic outcome.'

Locals fear the disruption will have a huge impact on the islands' tourism industry, which is entering its peak time.

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