Fiji is experiencing a concerning escalation in bird strikes, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, revealing that 41 incidents were reported in 2024, the highest figure in recent years. This marks a significant increase from the 24 incidents in 2022 and 33 last year, primarily occurring at non-international airports.
Gavoka, during a recent parliamentary address, expressed that this rise in bird strikes is part of a broader global aviation safety challenge. Among the reported incidents, 32 involved foreign bird species, while local species like owls, mynas, and flying foxes made up the rest. He clarified that bird strikes occur during takeoff or landing, which can cause a range of damage from minor to catastrophic.
A tragic reminder of the severity of such incidents occurred in December 2024, when a bird strike caused a dual engine failure on J2 Air Flight 52216 in South Korea, resulting in the tragic loss of 179 lives. Gavoka highlighted this incident to underscore the critical need for vigilance and preparedness within Fiji’s aviation framework.
He commended the professionalism displayed by the pilots of Fiji Airways Flight FJ450, who navigated a bird strike shortly after departing from Christchurch to Nadi on October 29, 2025. Their quick response was pivotal in ensuring the safety of all passengers, highlighting the importance of well-trained crews in managing emergencies.
In response to this threat, the Fijian government is proactively enhancing aviation safety measures. This includes launching improved bird hazard management programs, modifying nearby habitats to deter birds, and strengthening collaborations with environmental agencies. The establishment of a National Wildlife Hazard Management committee is also a key initiative aimed at addressing wildlife hazards significantly impacting aviation, particularly within a 13-kilometer radius of airports.
These proactive measures demonstrate the government’s dedication to upholding robust safety standards within the aviation sector, instilling public trust and promoting tourism in Fiji. By fostering a collaborative environment to reduce bird strike risks, the government is not only ensuring safety for residents and visitors but also cultivating a positive outlook for the future of aviation safety in the region.