WITH the assistance of a Government subsidy, domestic carrier Fiji Link has announced an expansion of its network with the addition of a Suva-Koro Island service beginning February 4.

Fiji Airways Group managing director and CEO Stefan Pichler said the new service would provide new opportunities for the people of Koro.

“We’re grateful that the Government has encouraged this service through the provision of a subsidy, thereby establishing a direct flight link between the Capital and Koro Island,” Mr Pichler said.

“This will be of tremendous assistance to the people of Koro to get to Suva, and will also allow those originally from Koro to visit their home island from Viti Levu.

“Because of accessibility, infrastructure and other determining factors, some remote islands may be more difficult to maintain profitable services to, but by working with the Government, we are able to provide regular air travel to these normally inaccessible destinations.”

Fiji Link will use its 19-seater Twin Otter aircraft on the route.

A special introductory fare of $164 one way was announced, however, normal airfare will begin at $190 per person one way.

The Wednesday flights to Koro will depart Nausori Airport at 10.05am and leave Koro to return to Viti Levu at 11.25am.