Fiji is taking significant steps to reform its aviation laws in response to safety issues identified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The government has introduced the Draft Civil Aviation Bill 2026 designed to enhance safety measures within the aviation sector, a concern that was notably brought to light during ICAO’s Coordinated Validation Mission in 2019.
At the Third Fiji Tourism Convention in Nadi, Sereima Bolanavatu, the executive manager of compliance at the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji, highlighted that the proposed bill seeks to provide a modern legal structure intended to bolster safety regulations and prepare the nation for future advancements in aviation. Recognizing the importance of air travel for tourism—Fiji’s primary economic driver—Bolanavatu emphasized the bill’s role in supporting the country’s ongoing growth in this sector.
The legislation proposes to consolidate and abolish three existing laws: the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji Act 1979, the Civil Aviation Reform Act 1999, and the Civil Aviation Act 1976, merging them into a single, comprehensive statute. While the new framework will primarily focus on aviation safety, aviation security will still fall under the Civil Aviation Security Act 1999, reflecting adherence to international standards.
An important feature of the Draft Civil Aviation Bill is the establishment of an independent Accident Investigation Commission, as mandated by ICAO. This body will be responsible for conducting transparent and accountable investigations into aircraft incidents and accidents, aiming to foster greater public trust in the aviation industry.
Bolanavatu noted that these reforms are critical not just for safety, but also for enhancing international confidence in Fiji’s aviation sector. This, in turn, is expected to strengthen airline partnerships and improve access to global markets. The proactive measures taken by the Fijian government underscore their commitment to modernizing the aviation framework, which is poised to play a vital role in the resilience and future growth of the nation’s economy.