Fiji Airways forked out $150 million more for fuel in the last three months compared to the same period last year, said managing director and chief executive officer Paul Scurrah as the company continues to encounter strong headwinds from elevated jet fuel prices.
The company is however closely watching its costs as it welcomes the raft of relief measures in the 2026-2027 national budget, assuring the nation that it remains operationally and financially stable.
“Fiji Airways, like airlines globally, continues to face significant cost pressures driven by elevated fuel prices and broader operational expenses.
“Fuel remains one of the airline’s single largest operating costs, and over the last three months alone Fiji Airways has paid approximately $150 million more for fuel compared to the same period last year,” Mr Scurrah said in response to questions sent by this newspaper.
“Despite these pressures, Fiji Airways continues to operate responsibly and maintain vital connectivity for Fiji, while carefully managing costs across the business through a range of operational efficiency measures. “The airline remains focused on balancing affordability, operational sustainability and continued support for tourism, trade and the wider economy.”
Among targeted measures announced by Government for the national carrier are the extension of its loss carry-forward provision from the standard eight years to 15 years, the waiving of fees and charges amounting to around $10 million for the next 12 months and a planned $200 million Government guarantee that will be put to Parliament soon by Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel.
While the airline has welcomed the support from Government, Mr Scurrah said their focus remains cost discipline and efficiency.
“Fiji Airways continues to actively manage its financial position and liquidity responsibly, and the airline remains operationally and financially stable,” he said.
“The focus across the business is on disciplined cost management, improving efficiency and ensuring long-term sustainability, rather than reliance on short-term borrowing measures.
“The airline has already introduced a range of initiatives to strengthen financial discipline and manage rising global cost pressures, including operational efficiencies, tighter expenditure controls and the deferral of non-essential capital expenditure.”
