Air Australia has grounded its international and domestic flights after being placed into administration.

Around 4,000 passengers in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Hawaii, Thailand and Bali have had their plans disrupted.

Administrator Mark Korda of KordaMentha told ABC's AM that Air Australia was unable to purchase fuel at Phuket International Airport last night, prompting fears about the airline's solvency.

The Brisbane-based airline employs 300 staff and flies to Hawaii, Bali and Thailand, where many passengers have be told to make alternative arrangements. Domestic routes have also been hit in Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Port Hedland.

Qantas and Jetstar have offered to help stranded passengers get home on presentation of a valid Air Australia ticket.