The Fijian government is implementing measures to discourage farming near airports nationwide in an effort to minimize bird-strike incidents. This initiative was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka following a recent incident on October 9, 2025, involving a Fiji Airways Boeing 737-800. The aircraft faced a bird-strike event shortly after takeoff from Christchurch Airport, forcing an emergency landing back in Christchurch. Fortunately, all 170 passengers and crew members onboard were unharmed, though the aircraft sustained damage from multiple bird impacts.
Mr. Gavoka emphasized that birds tend to thrive in agricultural areas adjacent to airports, resulting in increased risks for aviation. “Going forward, we will discourage people from planting fruits around the airport area to clean up locations where birds frequent,” he stated. While bird-strikes are recognized globally as a significant concern, Gavoka reassured that pilots and airport authorities are trained to manage these situations effectively. He noted, “The challenge is there, but the people who look after this are really on top of this. It’s manageable.”
Authorities plan to coordinate with local communities located near airports to mitigate bird habitats and enhance safety measures for both aviation and agriculture. Notably, previous statistics indicate a rising trend in bird-strikes, with reported incidents increasing from 24 in 2022 to a projected 41 in 2024 around key airport areas.
This government initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to uphold aviation safety within Fiji, an aspect critical to the nation’s thriving tourism sector. The proactive approach taken towards wildlife management showcases the government’s commitment to ensuring safe travel and maintaining traveler confidence, thereby reinforcing Fiji’s reputation as a desirable and secure destination worldwide.