The Standing Committee on Social Affairs has commended the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) for maintaining strong safety oversight, while highlighting key operational and staffing challenges in its review of the 2024 Annual Report.
The report, tabled in Parliament, noted that CAAF has effectively implemented 76 per cent of its obligations under the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Program, reflecting progress in aligning with international aviation standards.
The Committee also welcomed the establishment of an International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) office in Nadi, describing it as a significant step in positioning Fiji as a regional aviation hub.
CAAF’s regulatory role was also acknowledged, including comprehensive surveillance, audits and inspections conducted across airlines, aerodromes and aviation security entities. The Authority has certified 22 aerodromes nationwide, including 15 managed by Government and seven privately operated facilities.
However, the Committee raised concerns about challenges in attracting qualified aviation professionals, urging CAAF to review its remuneration packages to remain competitive.
It also noted that land acquired by CAAF in Wailoaloa remains partly occupied by tenants, with the matter currently before the courts.
Financially, the Committee highlighted that CAAF receives $5 from each passenger departure tax, recommending further engagement with Government to explore increasing this share.
Among its recommendations, the Committee called for faster progress on consolidating aviation legislation into a single modern framework aligned with ICAO standards, and for closer monitoring of unregistered aerodromes.
The Committee stressed the importance of maintaining safety standards while strengthening capacity to support Fiji’s growing aviation sector.
