FIJI’S tourism industry is monitoring the potential impact of rising airline fuel costs on visitor travel from Australia and New Zealand.
Tourism Action Group (TAG) chairman Damend Goundar said the industry remained confident in Fiji’s tourism outlook, however, it was monitoring changes in airfares and seat capacity.
The comments follow reports of financial pressures on major airlines, including Air New Zealand and Qantas, amid higher fuel costs.
Mr Goundar said airline losses could affect tourism demand if carriers increased fares, reduced capacity or offered fewer promotional deals.
“Fiji’s tourism businesses remain encouraged by the destination’s strong air connections; however, they recognise that any reduction in flight seats or fewer promotional offers could slow booking momentum for both markets,” he said.
The impact would likely emerge gradually as travellers assessed airfare levels and overall value, he said, particularly for short-haul holidays.
The Tourism Action Group, an industry-led advisory group initiated by Government and Tourism Fiji, will work with aviation and tourism partners to monitor flight schedules, fares and seat availability.
The information will help tourism operators prepare for peak and shoulder travel periods.
Mr Goundar said TAG would provide further updates as more information became available.
