Fiji Airways has announced the appointment of Paul Scurrah as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, starting November 1, 2025. Nalin Patel, Chairman of the Fiji Airways Group, confirmed this decision after a thorough search process at both national and international levels.
Scurrah comes to Fiji Airways with more than 20 years of executive experience across various sectors, including aviation, transport, logistics, and tourism. He previously held the position of CEO at Pacific National, Australia’s largest private rail freight company. In addition, he has been the CEO of Virgin Australia and has held significant roles at Queensland Rail, DP World Australia, and as a founding executive at Rex Airlines.
During the announcement, Patel expressed confidence in Scurrah’s capabilities and strategic leadership during a time when the global aviation industry is facing numerous challenges. He emphasized Scurrah’s track record of integrity and dedication to operational excellence, which aligns with Fiji Airways’ mission to provide high-quality service and ensure financial stability.
The Board of Directors extended their heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing CEO, Andre Viljoen, who has been at the helm for the past decade. Under Viljoen’s leadership, Fiji Airways experienced remarkable growth, expanding its fleet from 12 to 24 planes and boosting its revenue from FJ$815 million in 2015 to an impressive FJ$1.9 billion. During this period, the airline received several accolades, including a prestigious 4-star SKYTRAX rating and recognition as the APEX World Class Airline in 2026.
With Scurrah at the forefront, Fiji Airways aims to focus on innovation, sustainability, and continuing to enhance its reputation on the global stage. The transition represents not only a critical leadership shift but also a commitment to building on the solid foundation laid during Viljoen’s tenure.
The developments at Fiji Airways signal optimism for its future direction, reflecting an unwavering commitment to excellence and the potential for continued growth in the ever-evolving aviation landscape. As the airline embraces this new chapter under Scurrah’s leadership, there is a hopeful outlook for enhancing its service offerings and contributing positively to Fiji’s status as a significant player in the global travel sector.