Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Viliame Gavoka has praised the outgoing CEO of Fiji Airways, Andre Viljoen, for his transformative leadership over the past decade. Mr. Gavoka expressed his sadness regarding Viljoen’s decision to return to Mauritius, where he will take over as CEO of Air Mauritius. In a conversation with The Fiji Times, Gavoka acknowledged the significant and lasting impact Viljoen has had on the tourism industry in Fiji.
“After 10 years with Fiji Airways, I suppose I was expecting that call, but nevertheless, I am greatly saddened that it came,” Gavoka stated, emphasizing Viljoen’s pivotal role during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The minister noted that due to Viljoen’s contributions, Fiji’s tourism sector is on strong footing, with projections of grossing $4 billion by 2027, underscoring the airline’s integral role in achieving this goal.
The Minister confirmed that the government and Fiji Airways’ board are now seeking a suitable successor, indicating that they will conduct a thorough search both locally and globally to ensure the appointment of the best candidate. Gavoka reiterated the importance of Fiji Airways in the overall tourism ecosystem, as it facilitates the arrival of approximately 70% of visitors to Fiji.
This leadership transition comes at a critical time for Fiji Airways, which has experienced remarkable growth and success under Viljoen’s management. His tenure saw the airline’s global ranking elevate significantly, and it is well-positioned to continue its success in the aviation industry.
As Fiji Airways prepares for this change, the commitment to maintaining high standards and fostering local talent will be essential for the continued growth and resilience of both the airline and the Fijian tourism sector.
Overall, this transition in leadership offers a fresh opportunity for Fiji Airways to embrace new strategies while building on the solid foundation laid by Viljoen, allowing it to thrive in a competitive international market.
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