Fiji Airways has announced its inaugural non-stop flights linking Nadi, Fiji, with Dallas Fort Worth, Texas, a major travel hub in the United States. This new route is part of the airline’s strategic plan to enhance its North American operations, according to Chief Executive Officer Andre Viljoen during a press conference in Nadi.
The first flight is set for December 10, 2024, departing from Nadi Airport at 9:15 PM and arriving in Dallas at 4:30 PM the same day. The return flight will leave Dallas at 11:10 PM on December 10, landing in Nadi at 5:20 AM on December 12. The service will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays using the modern Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
Viljoen noted that this direct service is expected to bring over 1,000 passengers weekly to Fiji, significantly benefiting the local tourism sector. He highlighted that Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport hosts around 1,100 domestic and international flights daily, with peak periods exceeding 2,000 flights. The airport serves more than 250 destinations globally and accommodates over 80 million passengers annually.
Dallas-Fort Worth is primarily operated by American Airlines, which contributes to the majority of daily flights at the airport. The new route will facilitate expanded connectivity not only to the U.S. but also to several international destinations including New York, Miami, London, Paris, and Madrid.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Professor Biman Prasad emphasized the potential for increased tourism and trade opportunities between Fiji and the United States, pointing out the importance of Dallas as a new source market. He noted that Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is the third-busiest airport globally and Texas is home to rapidly growing regions in the country.
With the addition of Dallas, Fiji Airways will now serve 24 international direct destinations, including five in North America: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu, Vancouver, and Dallas. Flights depend on approvals from the U.S. Government, as stated by Viljoen.