The good news keeps rolling in for Fiji Airways. Just weeks after reporting a record 2023 for the airline, Fiji Airways has announced it will become the 15th full-member airline of the oneworld alliance, moving up from its previous status as a oneworld connect partner.
The announcement was made at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) AGM and World Air Transport Summit in Dubai.
With its full membership, Fiji Airways will join the likes of major global carriers including Qantas, Qatar Airways, American Airlines, British Airways and Cathay Pacific.
The transition will start immediately and is expected to be completed within 12 months.
For the past five years, Fiji Airways has enjoyed oneworld connect partner status, developing strong links with all oneworld member airlines.
And Fiji’s national carrier expects the integration will enhance its service offerings.
As a full oneworld member, Fiji Airways will offer its customers extensive benefits, including earning and redeeming miles, priority services, and access to nearly 700 business and first-class lounges worldwide.
Fiji Airways CEO and Managing Director Andre Viljoen said the announcement marked “a significant step in our commitment to providing unparalleled service and connectivity”.
“I am extremely proud to announce our full membership in the award-winning oneworld alliance,” he remarked.
“As a full member airline, we are excited to enhance the travel experience for oneworld alliance frequent flyers, offering greater accessibility to Fiji and the South Pacific, and ensuring seamless connections and memorable journeys for Fiji Airways customers across the alliance network.”
oneworld CEO Nat Pieper extended a warm “bula” welcome to the airline and said the elevated status of the carrier would be mutually beneficial.
“Fiji Airways is already part of the oneworld family, as we have had a highly successful relationship since the airline joined as a oneworld connect partner five years ago,” she stated.
“With its tremendous growth, award-winning product and services, and acceleration of connections with all oneworld member airlines, Fiji Airways will strengthen our position as the premier airline alliance for international global travellers.”
Based at Nadi International Airport, Fiji Airways currently flies to 26 destinations in 15 countries, including key oneworld hubs like Sydney, Hong Kong, Los Angeles and Tokyo.
Its subsidiary, Fiji Link, will become a oneworld affiliate member, expanding oneworld’s network with domestic and regional flights to destinations such as Suva, Labasa, and Taveuni and to Pacific Island nations like Tonga, Samoa and Vanuatu.
In 2023, Fiji Airways reported record profits, carrying 2.2 million passengers.
Last month, the carrier officially launched its Chef’s Table innovation, a new Fijian fine-dining experience for all travellers to savour at the FJ’s Premier Lounge at Nadi Airport.
