Fiji Airways demonstrated remarkable growth in 2023, achieving a significant reduction in debt by $100 million and transporting 2.2 million passengers, a substantial increase from the 1.4 million passengers in 2022. Chair of the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Iliesa Vanawalu, highlighted that the airline enhanced its seat capacity by 47 percent and operated 26,586 flights, comprising international, regional, and domestic routes—up 40 percent from the previous year.
The airline’s expansion included the introduction of two Airbus A350-900 aircraft and the launch of new routes to Canberra and Noumea, further establishing connectivity with 27 international destinations. Additionally, Fiji Airways invested $49 million in workforce development, part of the $130 million budget for the Fiji Airways Aviation Academy.
Renowned for its service excellence, Fiji Airways earned global accolades at the SKYTRAX 2023 World Airline Awards, securing titles for Best Airline, Best Airline Staff, and Best Airline Services in Australia and the Pacific. Vanawalu acknowledged the contributions of the airline’s board, executives, and staff in supporting the growth and positive impact on Fiji’s tourism and economy.
These accomplishments come alongside a record operating revenue of $1.8 billion, marking the highest earnings in Fiji Airways’ 70-year history, and an operational profit of $113.2 million—indicative of a robust recovery from previous losses. As the airline navigates forward, it faces the challenge of an increasingly competitive aviation landscape in 2024, with potential economic uncertainties and fluctuating fuel prices. However, the optimistic trajectory in passenger growth and strategic investments suggests a hopeful outlook for the future of Fiji Airways and its vital role in enhancing Fiji’s economy.