National carrier Fiji Airways carries about 70 per cent of visitors arriving in Fiji by air, making it vital to the country’s tourism industry.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka made these remarks as the national airline marked its 75 years of operation in the country on September 1.
Mr Gavoka said the national carrier played a critical role in supporting tourism, employment, trade and business.
He said tourism accounted for about 40 per cent of Fiji’s gross domestic product, directly and indirectly, and supported nearly 120,000 jobs.
“Fiji Airways carries roughly 70 per cent of all visitors who arrive here by air, making it the single most important artery sustaining that industry, and with it, the livelihoods of thousands of Fijian families,” Mr Gavoka said.
He said the airline had grown from its modest beginnings into an important link between Fiji and the world.
“Today, Fiji Airways represents far more than air travel. It connects our people, our communities and our islands with the world.
“It brings visitors to our shores, supports the tourism industry, strengthens trade and business connections, reunites families and carries the name of Fiji across international borders every day.”
He also acknowledged the generations of Fijians who had helped build and sustain the national carrier.
“Pilots, cabin crew, engineers, ground staff, operational teams and many others have each played a part in building and sustaining our national carrier.”
The airline began commercial operations on September 1, 1951, when a de Havilland Dragon Rapide flew from Nausori to Drasa, near Lautoka.
