The Fiji Airways Aviation Academy has achieved annual cost savings of $22.7 million. A key benefit of the Academy is its capability to carry out all essential training internally. This includes initial type ratings, common type ratings, recurrent training, remedial training, and license conversion.
Minister for Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka disclosed this information in Parliament after being asked about the academy’s expansion strategy. He noted that by removing the need to outsource training to external providers, Fiji Airways has saved significant amounts that would otherwise be spent on third-party training facilities.
“This approach ensures that every dollar dedicated to training remains within the company, thereby enhancing its financial stability,” Mr. Gavoka stated. He explained that previously, pilots had to travel to international training centers in locations like Singapore, Hong Kong, Honolulu, Brisbane, Seattle, and Bangkok, which involved not only training fees but substantial costs for accommodation and living expenses.
With the academy’s establishment, these costs have been completely removed. Mr. Gavoka emphasized that pilots can now complete all required training in Fiji, significantly lessening the financial strain associated with overseas travel.