Seventy-six firefighters graduated from the Fiji Airports-organised two-week Qual-PAC 24 International aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) training on Friday last week.
Fiji Airports chief executive officer Mesake Nawari during the graduation said as they celebrated aircraft rescue and fire fighting, it was important to acknowledge that they are the heartbeat of any airport as first responders.
“Firefighters dedicate their lives to the protection of life and property and ARFF is no exception,” he said.
Mr Nawari said this training provided an exceptional opportunity for our Pacific island neighbours — Nauru, Cook Islands, Tuvalu and Kiribati to attend this much needed ARFF training.
“This is in line with improving safety at our airports and is a pivotal step in enhancing Fiji Airports’ position as a leader in aviation in our region and I look forward to many more opportunities to host more training here at Fiji Airports.
“I want to thank you for your dedication and invaluable service to your communities and the aviation industry in the respective countries you serve.”
He also acknowledged the internationally recognised ARFF specialists from the United States of America, United Kingdom and Australia who facilitated three unique internationally recognised courses in the span of two weeks.
“To our participating firefighters from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, Sharjah International Airport in the United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Nauru, Cook Islands, Tuvalu and Kiribati, the National Fire Authority (Fiji) and our ARFF officers from Rotuma Airport, Taveuni Airport, Savusavu Airport, Labasa Airport, Nausori Airport and Nadi International Airport — we acknowledge your dedication and celebrate your achievements,” Mr Nawari said.
