This week, Fiji Airways gained the green light to operate flights to and from Fort Worth International Airport in Dallas, Texas, following the signing of an open skies air service agreement between Fiji and Australia. The US Department of State reported 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 newly established open skies agreement is expected to enhance aviation cooperation between the two nations. According to the Department, it aims to elevate the civil aviation transport relationship between the United States and Fiji to contemporary standards.
The deal represents a significant milestone for economic collaboration, strengthening ties between the countries and opening new avenues for customers, airlines, and travel firms. Fiji Airways intends to commence non-stop flights connecting Dallas and Fiji in December.
The agreement aims to offer more affordable, accessible, and efficient air services, boosting both tourism and trade. It also emphasizes commitments from both governments to uphold high aviation safety and security standards. Key components of the agreement include unrestricted capacity and service frequency for passenger and cargo airlines, open route rights, self-handling provisions, and opportunities for code-sharing.
The agreement, now in effect, complements existing US Open Skies agreements with over 135 other partners, facilitating US air carriers in expanding their international flight networks and enhancing economic connections with growing markets.