It’s official! As reported in Karryon yesterday, Fiji Airways has confirmed it will commence new non-stop flights between Nadi and Canberra, thanks to its forthcoming acquisition of two new A350s.
Commencing July 2023, the new service will operate twice weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays until the end of September, from which point it will fly three times per week.
The new service also marks Canberra Airport’s return as an international hub.
Fiji Airways CEO and managing director Andre Viljoen said the announcement was “a living testament to the strong relations that the two countries have always enjoyed, and demonstrates the importance of Australia as our leading tourism market”.
“We are pleased to be able to provide the people of Canberra the only direct flights to Nadi, facilitating a seamless holiday experience, which begins the moment they step onboard,” Viljoen said, following the arrival of a promotional FJ flight into CBR to announce the new service.
“This marks another significant milestone for Fiji Airways as we continue to expand our network and provide greater connectivity for our customers.”
With this greater connectivity, Viljoen said passengers would be able to seamlessly fly onwards to North America, the South Pacific and other global destinations.
“Travellers can also break up a long journey with a short stay in Fiji,” he added.
“As of July, your getaway to paradise will be a short four-hour journey with our international award winning APEX Five Star service.”
Balancing capacity
The FJ boss said the airline’s acquirement of two new A350s made the service possible.
“We will receive the first of our two new A350s in July, resulting in an immediate increase in capacity across our network,” he remarked.
“This means we will be able to dedicate more seats to the Australian market, specifically Canberra.
“Australia continues to be our major source market for tourism. Not only do we need to be able to cater for the growing number of tourists visiting Fiji, but also position ourselves to create demand and ensure that Fiji Airways is their airline of choice.”
Fijian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka, the Fijian Drua, and rugby fans flew on the promotional flight to watch the ACT Brumbies at GIO Stadium in Canberra.
FJ also confirmed its sponsorship of the Brumbies for Super Rugby Pacific.