Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, reaffirmed the Fijian government’s commitment to supporting Fiji Airways’ route to Hong Kong, which currently provides three direct return flights per week between Nadi and Hong Kong. During a parliamentary session, Gavoka acknowledged that although the frequency has been reduced from five weekly flights prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, this adjustment is in response to the growing demand for the route, with plans to gradually rebuild the service frequency.
While discussing the potential for establishing direct flights to major mainland Chinese cities such as Shanghai, Gavoka emphasized a cautious approach towards rapid expansion. He mentioned that lessons from other markets illustrate the risks of sudden capacity increases, which could lead to market instability for smaller airlines like Fiji Airways.
Moreover, Gavoka indicated that the government is closely evaluating the feasibility of new long-haul routes. This careful consideration aims to ensure long-term sustainability, particularly due to the competitive landscape dominated by larger airlines equipped with extensive networks and greater economies of scale. Any expansion efforts will prioritize stable and scalable results for Fiji Airways.
In lieu of immediate direct service to mainland China, the government is also exploring codeshare agreements with Chinese airlines as a strategic alternative. This approach reflects global aviation trends, enabling improved network reach and passenger convenience while avoiding the substantial costs associated with launching direct routes.
This proactive strategy not only aims to enhance air connectivity but also aligns with recent discussions surrounding the growth potential within the Chinese tourist market. Recent statistics revealed that only a small fraction of visitors to Fiji came from China, highlighting a significant opportunity for growth. The government’s initiatives aim to stimulate tourism and foster economic ties with China, paving the way for mutual benefits in the future.
As Fiji Airways and the government continue their discussions and strategies, there is a hopeful outlook for expanding air services to better connect with major markets, thus enabling a resurgence in tourism and economic collaboration.
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