Fiji Airways will be flying a third service from Nadi to Canberra in October this year.
Fiji Airways Manager Global Sales and Marketing Akuila Batiweti said it’s the newest direct destination out of Nadi to Australia’s capital, Canberra, which started on Friday.
It becomes the newest destination to join Fiji Airways comprehensive network of direct international destinations, said Mr Batiweti.
He added that it now offers two flights a week.
The Tuesday and Friday flights to Canberra marks an exciting development for both countries, strengthening tourism, trade, people-to-people connections, government relations and cargo transportation.
“Through increased connectivity, we can enhance cultural exchanges, strengthen trade relationships and promote economic growth.
“As we expand our horizons, we seek to create more opportunities for our customers, our employees and the communities we serve,” he said.
He added that the new route to Canberra represents a stepping stone towards achieving that vision.
Mr Batiweti noted since the announcement of the service in April, bookings have steadily grown at a pace of seven per cent per week.
“This is a positive indication that the route will be sustainable and healthy in the long term.”
He further added that with this new addition there would be business opportunities between Fiji and Canberra especially in terms of freight services.
“Direct flights mean Fiji Airways can have commodities reaching the two destinations in just four hours.”
Mr Batiweti shared positive feedback from not only the travelers, but the trade partners and travel agents that sell Fiji to customers.
A guest on board Katie Fonoti said it has been a great relief for them when traveling abroad.
“Previously, we would travel by road to get to Sydney or take another domestic flight,” she said.
With the commencement of the flights to Canberra, the national airline now provides a comprehensive network of services to Australia with flights to all major cities, including;
14 to 18 weekly flights to Sydney
10 weekly flights to Melbourne
8 weekly flights to Brisbane
2 to Adelaide
Fiji Airways now flies direct to 23 international destinations.
Story By: Waisea Nasokia
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj