FIJI’S tourism industry has begun seeing some booking cancellations as global airlines adjust schedules, reroute flights and suspend certain services amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Tourism Fiji chief executive officer Paresh Pant said the industry was responding by encouraging flexibility for travellers affected by the disruptions.
“In these instances, as per the advice from Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, Tourism Fiji is encouraging operators to be flexible and offer impacted travellers a full refund, change of booking date without additional fees or the opportunity to hold the booking value as a credit for a future stay,” Dr Pant said.
Despite the airline adjustments, he said Fiji’s geographic position continued to provide reassurance for visitors.
“Given our geographic location, Fiji remains distanced and safe, which continues to be reassuring for travellers.
“However, as the global situation continues to change, we are monitoring booking patterns and remain in regular dialogue with Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, our airline and industry partners.
“Given the forward nature of travel bookings, it is still early to determine any direct impact on arrivals.”
Asked whether ticket adjustments by Air New Zealand could lead to a drop in visitor numbers from New Zealand, Dr Pant said airfare pricing and operational changes were commercial decisions made by airlines and generally applied across
its wider networks.
“New Zealand remains one of Fiji’s most important visitor markets and continues to show strong interest in the destination.
“As with the wider aviation sector, there may be broader operational considerations such as fuel price movements if global conditions continue to evolve.”
Dr Pant noted that New Zealand’s economy had faced pressure in the post-pandemic period, which had already influenced travel behaviour and spending patterns.
“However, Kiwis traditionally place a strong emphasis on holidays and travel, particularly to familiar destinations like Fiji.
“Nearby destinations that offer good value and convenience tend to remain a priority for many New Zealand travellers.”
He added Tourism Fiji currently had a range of targeted campaigns underway in the New Zealand market aimed at maintaining the destination’s appeal.
“In the event of any softening in demand, we will work with our partners to adapt and amplify initiatives as needed.
“At this stage, we have not observed any significant shift in demand from key source markets including New Zealand, Australia, the United States and parts of Asia.
“As with most global events, any broader impacts on travel sentiment typically take time to be reflected in booking patterns.
“During periods of global uncertainty, travellers often seek destinations that are easy to access and have a reputation for safety. Fiji’s location and warm hospitality continue to resonate strongly with visitors, and we continue to
reinforce Fiji as a place where travellers can experience a sense of safety, connection and happiness.”
