Fairweather stalled for repairs
A malfunction in the state ferry Fairweather's jet propulsion system has prompted ferry system operators to cancel today's trip to Sitka.
Alaska Marine Highway System manager John Falvey said a turbo charger for one of the four engines to the ship malfunctioned within the last few days. The turbo charger operates one of four large blades that propels the ship.
Falvey said the vessel will continue to make its regularly scheduled trips to Haines and Skagway, using three engines. But it has canceled today's day trip to Sitka, Falvey said, because the ferry system did not want to risk running the ship through the precarious Sergius Narrows on three engines.
The trips up Lynn Canal, however, will be delayed by about 45 minutes, Falvey said. AMHS released a statement Tuesday instructing ferry system customers to check with their local ferry terminal for sailing times.