Fiji Airports recently celebrated a groundbreaking achievement as Kalesi Samanunu Cagi became the first Fijian to attain certification as an Instrument Flight Procedure (IFP) Designer, an accolade bestowed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF). This milestone marks a significant advancement for Fiji’s aviation sector, underscoring Fiji Airports’ commitment to nurturing local talent and championing diversity, particularly the empowerment of women in essential roles.
CEO of Fiji Airports, Mesake Nawari, expressed profound pride in Cagi’s contributions, noting her impactful role in shaping the future of aviation professionals in Fiji. Cagi has been instrumental in expanding the Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) team from a modest three to 13 skilled specialists since assuming leadership in 2023. Her certification equips her to manage the design, evaluation, and upkeep of instrument flight procedures, vital for ensuring the safe navigation of aircraft within Fiji.
This achievement aligns with Fiji Airports’ ongoing mission to bolster sovereign capabilities, minimizing reliance on international service providers. CEO Nawari highlighted that this progression paves the path towards establishing an accredited IFP office within Fiji, enhancing regional autonomy and compliance with global standards.
The certification empowers Cagi with the authority to undertake significant responsibilities, including obstacle assessments, terrain analysis, and flight management system procedure coding. Such competencies are crucial for maintaining precision-based air navigation across Fiji’s airports. Cagi perceives her success as a beacon of possibility for future aviation professionals in Fiji, demonstrating that, with adequate support and the right attitude, local expertise and leadership can thrive.
This development builds upon previous initiatives at Fiji Airports, like transitioning into a Data Provider for the European Aeronautical Information Services (EAD) Database. This strategic enhancement has fortified Fiji’s capabilities in aeronautical information management, bolstering safe air traffic management and curtailing dependence on external entities.
Furthermore, this announcement coincides with Fiji Airways’ recent investments in state-of-the-art simulators, aiming to deliver exceptional training programs for pilots and engineers, thus establishing Fiji as a regional hub for aviation excellence. These advancements in modern infrastructure are crucial for fostering growth and ensuring the safety of air travel in the area.
Fiji’s strides in the aviation sector are reflective of a broader strategic vision to uphold high standards and foster ample opportunities for economic and professional growth, benefitting both the aviation community and the tourism industry. These accomplishments celebrate individual successes while heralding a promising horizon for Fiji as a pivotal player in Pacific aviation.