National airline Fiji Airways intends to operate scheduled flights amid increasing jet fuel prices ignited by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking at the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Fiji Airways and Tourism Fiji in Nadi, the airline’s managing director and CEO Paul Scurrah said they were doing everything they could to maintain seat capacity.
“Right now, we’ve had a global impact happening within our industry,” said Mr Scurrah.
“That is (there are) two impacts for us, and that is the significant increase in the cost of fuel, which puts a lot of pressure on our ability to operate in the markets we operate.
“What I have said to my team is we need to do everything that we possibly can to make sure that seat capacity that is coming and going to Fiji is maintained, and in order to do that we need to make sure that we are covering the increase in fuel costs that could scare people from coming to Fiji.
“So, we are walking that fine line and finding that delicate balance.”
Mr Scurrah said there was also an opportunity for the industry to welcome new visitors.
“On the flip side to that, our reputation as a safe and family-friendly destination is playing into our hands at the moment, and we are seeing increased interest in coming either to Fiji or through Fiji from people who would not have contemplated to do so.
“That is an opportunity for us. An opportunity for people who have not seen Fiji to learn about the beautiful country and to make sure that we can get them back again the next time they want to go on holiday.
“That increased demand is certainly helping us mitigate the impact of the cost of fuel.”
He added the airline continued to monitor global developments, including the evolving situation in the Middle East, while remaining focused on maintaining reliable operations and supporting Fiji’s tourism growth.
“While we continue to monitor global developments that may affect the aviation sector, Fiji’s geographic location, relative isolation, and reputation as a safe, family-friendly destination continue to support strong travel interest.
“We intend to operate our full schedule as planned while continuing to support tourism, trade and connectivity for Fiji and the wider Pacific.”
