Fiji Airways has reported a record-breaking operating revenue of $1.8 billion for the year 2023, as noted in the Company’s Annual Report presented in Parliament last week.
Chairperson Nalin Patel emphasized that this figure represents the highest earnings in the airline’s 70-year history. The company achieved an operational profit of $113.2 million, a notable recovery from a loss of $175 million in 2022.
Patel highlighted the essential role of Fiji Airways in supporting the economic growth of Fiji. He noted that the airline transports about 70 percent of all visitors to the country and is a significant contributor to Fiji’s Gross Domestic Product. In an unprecedented achievement, Fiji Airways carried 2.2 million passengers in 2023, exceeding the two million mark for the first time.
The Chairperson attributed the airline’s strong financial performance in 2023 to strategic initiatives and the resilience of the national carrier. However, he also warned that 2024 may present more challenges as the aviation sector becomes increasingly competitive, along with economic uncertainties in key markets, geopolitical tensions, fluctuating fuel prices, inflation-driven costs, and the impact of a stronger US dollar on operations.