This week, Fiji Airways secured an open skies air service agreement, allowing flights to and from Fort Worth International Airport in Dallas, Texas. The signing took place between the United States and Fiji during the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting in Nuku’alofa, Tonga. US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka were present for the initialing of the agreement.
The agreement aims to enhance bilateral aviation cooperation, elevating the civil aviation relationship between the two nations to a modern standard. It is expected to strengthen economic ties, foster people-to-people connections, and create new opportunities for travelers, airlines, and tourism-related companies.
Fiji Airways plans to commence non-stop flights between Dallas and Fiji in December. The agreement will enable air carriers to offer more affordable and convenient services, thus promoting tourism and commerce. It emphasizes a commitment from both governments to uphold high aviation safety and security standards.
Additionally, the agreement provides unrestricted capacity and service frequency for both passenger and all-cargo carriers, along with open route rights, charter options, provisions for self-handling, and opportunities for code-sharing. This latest agreement builds upon the existing framework of US Open Skies agreements with over 135 other partners, facilitating US carriers’ expansion of flight networks and connection to emerging markets.