The Fiji Airways Aviation Academy is more than just a training facility, it is a beacon of opportunity for Fijians, particularly for our women who have long been underrepresented in the aviation sector, says Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
While commissioning two new flight simulators and two new full flight training devices for the academy yesterday, Mr Rabuka said the institution was providing world class training for Fijians.
“Fiji Airways continues to set the bar high, not only in aviation, but also in its commitment to our people,” Mr Rabuka said.
“This academy is more than just a training facility, it is a beacon of opportunity for Fijians, particularly for our women who have long been under represented in the aviation sector.
“The establishment of this facility right here in Fiji is a game changer.”
He added that Fiji Airways brought in more than 65 to 70 per cent of all visitors into Fiji and their marketing spread globally was higher than any other entity promoting tourism in Fiji.
“These new simulators will enhance regional connectivity, allowing us to better serve and support the economy to our fellow Pacific Island nations.”
Fiji Airways managing director and CEO Andre Viljoen said the inclusion of the new simulators and flight training devices was a significant milestone in the evolution of our aviation academy.
“We are now fully self-sufficient,” he said.
“We commissioned the phase one which was the two full flight simulators in 2020. The investment of this phase two is $75million, added to our original investment of phase one of $85m in 2020, we are looking at a total investment of $160m.”
