The open skies air service agreement signed this week will enable Fiji Airways to operate flights to and from Fort Worth International Airport in Dallas, Texas. The agreement was officially initialed by US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting held in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
This new open skies agreement aims to enhance bilateral aviation cooperation between the United States and Fiji, marking a significant advancement in their civil aviation relationship. The US Department of State highlighted that the agreement fosters a robust economic and commercial partnership, strengthens people-to-people connections, and opens up new opportunities for airlines, customers, and travel companies.
As part of this agreement, Fiji Airways plans to commence non-stop flights between Dallas and Fiji in December. The agreement will allow air carriers to provide more affordable and efficient air services to travelers and goods, promoting both tourism and commerce. Additionally, it commits both nations to uphold high standards of aviation safety and security.
Key features of the agreement include unlimited capacity and frequency of services for both passenger and cargo carriers, open route rights, an unrestricted charter regime, self-handling provisions, and opportunities for code-sharing arrangements. This agreement is now in effect and aligns with the US Open Skies framework, which includes partnerships with over 135 other countries, facilitating the expansion of US air carriers’ flight networks globally.