Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma has called on Fiji’s Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Ministers to intervene in a growing controversy involving the Pacific Flying School, where the educational and career prospects of over 50 aviation students are threatened by purportedly unjustified restrictions from the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF). Sharma, speaking in Parliament, pointed to recent CAAF actions, including the rejection of overhauled aircraft engines by Suncoast, as lacking technical merit and adherence to international aviation standards.
Sharma urged CAAF to produce clear technical guidelines, airworthiness information, or risk assessments to substantiate their decisions. He stressed that CAAF’s silence is unacceptable and highlighted that the restrictions contravene the expected levels of transparency and rationality outlined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Highlighting the emotional strain on affected students, Sharma linked this issue to larger mental health conversations recently addressed by the Prime Minister at a United Nations summit on youth mental health. Sharma expressed concerns that the delays or potential stoppage in students’ professional journeys present significant risks to their futures.
This situation sheds light on persistent issues within Fiji’s aviation sector, which has previously faced criticism for alleged corruption and adherence to outdated regulatory practices. Despite CAAF’s denial of these accusations, the call for enhanced transparency and conformance with ICAO standards remains strong.
The overall sentiment emphasizes the critical need for effective oversight and reform of regulatory bodies to sustain the credibility of Fiji’s aviation industry. An independent investigation, as previously suggested, could provide a comprehensive examination of these issues and prompt essential reforms to boost transparency and stakeholder confidence.
The developing scenario underscores the necessity of regulatory transparency and balancing rigorous safety protocols with equitable treatment of aviation bodies and emerging industry professionals. Governmental intervention could provide the needed reassurance and direction for the affected students and the wider aviation community, paving the way for a positive transformation in the sector.