Fiji Airways is now permitted to operate flights to and from Fort Worth International Airport in Dallas, Texas, following the signing of an open skies air service agreement (ASA) between Fiji and Australia this week. The announcement was made by the US Department of State, detailing that US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka initialed the agreement during the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
The new ASA aims to enhance aviation cooperation between the two nations. According to the Department of State, the agreement is expected to elevate the civil aviation relationship between the United States and Fiji to a modern standard, fostering strong economic and commercial ties, enhancing connections among people, and creating new opportunities for travelers, airlines, and travel agencies.
Fiji Airways plans to commence non-stop flights between Dallas and Fiji in December. The agreement is designed to facilitate more affordable, convenient, and efficient air services for travelers and shippers, ultimately promoting tourism and commerce. It also establishes commitments to high standards of aviation safety and security.
Key components of the agreement include unrestricted capacity and frequency of services for passenger and all-cargo carriers, open route rights, a flexible charter regime, self-handling provisions, and opportunities for open code-sharing. This new agreement complements existing US Open Skies agreements with over 135 other partners, enabling US air carriers to expand their flight networks internationally and strengthen connections with growing markets.