The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, in partnership with the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF), is inviting the public, aviation stakeholders, and all interested parties to share their views on the draft Civil Aviation Bill 2026.
In a joint statement, the Ministry said public feedback is vital to ensure the new law is “modern, effective, and serves Fiji’s aviation industry and its people.”
The proposed Bill aims to modernise and strengthen Fiji’s civil aviation framework by replacing three outdated laws — the Civil Aviation Act 1976, Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji Act 1979, and Civil Aviation Reform Act 1999 — with one comprehensive piece of legislation.
According to the Ministry, the new Bill will align Fiji’s aviation laws with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), enhance regulatory efficiency, and strengthen the country’s legal authority in civil aviation oversight.
“The Civil Aviation Bill 2026 represents a major step forward in ensuring that Fiji’s aviation system meets global best practices in safety, governance, and compliance,” the Ministry said.
“It consolidates fragmented laws into one coherent framework that better reflects modern aviation operations and supports sustainable growth in the sector.”
The statement noted that the 2019 ICAO Coordinated Validation Mission (ICVM) identified several gaps in Fiji’s aviation legislative framework, particularly in the areas of Legislation (LEG) and Accident and Incident Investigation (AIG). The audit found the need for clearer legal mandates, delegation of authority, and updated rule-making powers.
“A modernised legislative framework is essential to strengthen Fiji’s aviation safety oversight system, enhance compliance with ICAO standards, and uphold our international credibility,” the Ministry added.
The Bill also seeks to ensure that the Chicago Convention remains the cornerstone of Fiji’s aviation governance, with clear provisions for safety oversight, efficiency, and accountability.
Public consultations on the draft Bill will continue in the coming weeks, and the Ministry encourages all stakeholders to review the proposal and provide written submissions before the deadline.
