TOURISM and Civil Aviation Minister Viliame Gavoka says Fiji Airways should be allowed to purchase the equipment it needs if it enables the airline to maintain its operational standards and perform at its full potential.
While responding to concerns over the airlines newly purchased six new four-wheel hybrid vehicles, particularly in the wake of the Government’s introduction of a 5 per cent Tourism Services Tax to provide assistance to Fiji Airways, Mr Gavoka said the criticism did not present the full picture.
“We want the airline to continue to operate in its full potential,” he said.
“We don’t want them to be shortchanged in any way. Continue to do what they do because that’s what you need to do to support the products. And the product is high quality, as we know.”
Mr Gavoka said there could be valid reasons for the airline to purchase additional equipment and urged members of the public to allow Fiji Airways to manage its operations.
“Let Fiji Airways run Fiji Airways.”
Mr Gavoka questioned the online criticism surrounding the purchases, saying some members of the public had become too involved in areas they should not be.
“The keyboard warriors are getting a little too bold and into areas where they should not.”
He said Fiji Airways was a professional organisation with international recognition.
Mr Gavoka said the airline’s purchases and operations were part of maintaining the standards required of a member of the Oneworld airline alliance.
