FIJI Airways successfully conducted 523 repatriation flights throughout the COVID pandemic. The airline’s CEO and managing director, Andre Viljoen, made this announcement during the launch of two new flight simulators and two full flight training devices at the Fiji Airways Aviation Academy.
Viljoen explained that the first phase of the full flight simulators was initiated in January 2020; however, the airline faced shutdown in April due to the pandemic. He credited the simulators and the training facility as essential to the airline’s ability to operate those 523 repatriation flights.
These flights served not only Fiji but also neighboring countries. In total, the airline transported 17,000 tonnes of cargo into and out of Fiji, including trans-shipments to Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, they delivered 523 tonnes of vital medical supplies to Fiji and surrounding nations.
Viljoen emphasized that this operation was crucial in allowing the airline to be prepared to resume flights immediately once borders reopened. He highlighted that the academy represents more than just training; it plays a lifesaving role in the airline’s operations.