The Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) took decisive action to strengthen aviation safety following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on June 12, 2025.
In a ministerial statement, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, outlined CAAF’s proactive measures to ensure Fiji’s skies remain safe.
The Air India Boeing 787-8 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad due to both engine fuel cut-off switches moving to the CUTOFF position, leading to catastrophic power loss.
Mr Gavoka praised India’s swift response, including mandatory inspections of Air India’s 787 fleet, as a model of transparency.
CAAF launched targeted safety audits of Fiji-registered Boeing 737 MAX, Airbus A330, and A350 aircraft, focusing on engine fuel cut-off mechanisms, Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) systems, emergency shutdown protocols, and black box capabilities.
Mr Gavoka added these audits align with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, ensuring compliance and readiness.
“We will not wait for a tragedy to happen before acting,” Mr Gavoka said.
CAAF is also reviewing Fiji’s accident investigation protocols to align with ICAO standards, aiming for swift, independent, and effective responses.
“We remain alert, accountable, and committed to safety,” he said, extending condolences to India’s affected families.”
