Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has highlighted the critical need for an independent review of aviation safety and oversight in the Joyce Aviation Group matter. He emphasizes that the involvement of various stakeholders, which includes operators, regulators, and government entities, introduces a potential conflict of interest. To address this issue, he has suggested that the review process should be taken out of Fiji’s jurisdiction.
Rabuka has requested the support of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to conduct an audit of Fiji’s aviation safety requirements. He believes that relying solely on local evaluations may undermine public confidence, particularly when safety and international compliance are at stake. He advocates for independent scrutiny from an international organization to protect Fiji’s reputation in the global aviation sector and to ensure that decisions are made impartially.
His concerns come after the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) recently decided not to renew the Aircraft Maintenance Organisation Certificate for Sunflower Aviation, a subsidiary of the Joyce Aviation (Fiji) Group. This decision followed a thorough regulatory assessment during which CAAF identified significant and recurring safety non-compliances by the operator.
Rabuka’s insistence on third-party involvement reflects a proactive approach towards enhancing aviation safety in Fiji. By soliciting international expertise, the government aims to bolster its aviation standards, ensuring that the highest safety protocols are met and fostering greater confidence among the public and global aviation partners.