Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma has urged the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Ministers to step in and address an escalating issue involving the Pacific Flying School, where over 50 aviation students’ careers are at risk due to alleged unwarranted restrictions imposed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF). Speaking in Parliament, Sharma highlighted recent CAAF actions, such as the rejection of Suncoast overhauled aircraft engines, which he claims lack technical justification and violate international aviation standards.
Sharma called for CAAF to provide a clear technical directive, airworthiness data, or risk assessments to support their decision. He emphasized that silence from the authority is not acceptable and argued that these restrictions do not align with the expectations of transparency and reasonableness required by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The emotional impact on the students affected was also discussed by Sharma, drawing parallels to broader mental health concerns that the Prime Minister raised at a recent United Nations summit focused on youth mental health challenges. Sharma expressed concern over the unnecessary delays or derailments of the students’ careers and futures.
This situation reflects ongoing challenges within Fiji’s aviation sector. Previous criticisms of CAAF include alleged corruption and outdated regulatory practices, which do not align with international standards. While CAAF officials have denied these allegations, the call for greater transparency and adherence to ICAO standards persists.
The overall sentiment underscores the need for robust oversight and reform within regulatory frameworks to maintain the aviation industry’s credibility in Fiji. An independent inquiry, as suggested previously, could help address these issues comprehensively and potentially lead to necessary reforms that reinforce transparency and stakeholder trust.
The unfolding situation highlights the importance of regulatory transparency and the need to balance stringent safety measures with fair and just treatment of aviation entities and future industry professionals. The government’s proactive engagement could offer reassurance and a way forward for the affected students and the broader aviation community.