Discussions surrounding the proposed Civil Aviation Bill 2026 took center stage during consultations held in Nadi this week. A significant proposal emerged urging the inclusion of both drugs and firearms in the legislation’s dangerous goods section. Komal Raj, a legal officer from Airports Fiji Ltd, highlighted the ongoing parliamentary discourse regarding the transportation of illicit substances by aircraft.
Raj underscored the necessity for stringent safety measures, noting that dangerous goods encompass anything that could endanger passengers and crew. “The government is keen on implementing checks for drugs concerning dangerous goods, along with the necessary scanning processes,” she stated. This heightened focus on security comes amid increasing pressure on the government to address drug-related issues within the aviation industry.
In response, Sereima Bolanavatu, the executive manager for Standards & Compliance at the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF), clarified that the definition of dangerous goods in the proposed Bill aligns with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Bolanavatu explained that according to ICAO Annex 18, dangerous goods refer to substances that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment. Consequently, the current proposal does not categorize drugs within this classification.
The dialogue ensued with Airports Fiji Ltd CEO Mesake Nawari urging the committee to consider amending the Bill to address this pressing issue. CAAF acting CEO Rigamoto Aisake assured that provisions related to drugs are encompassed under Annex 9, which addresses facilitation, ensuring that measures are in place for managing such concerns.
This proactive approach towards safety and compliance in the aviation sector reinforces the commitment of aviation authorities to respond to emerging challenges, ultimately aiming to safeguard the well-being of all passengers and personnel involved in air travel. As discussions continue, the integration of more robust safety measures could pave the way for enhanced regulations that may fortify the aviation sector against potential threats.