Fiji Airways is set to enhance inter-island air travel in Fiji through a collaboration with American company Odys’ Aviation, which focuses on advanced efficient air travel solutions. The partnership will introduce Odys’ Aviation’s hybrid VTOL aircraft, named ‘Laila’, with operations beginning early next year, making Fiji the first Pacific nation to utilize these aircraft.
Fiji Airways’ CEO, Andre Viljoen, highlighted that this initiative is part of the airline’s “nine game changer strategy,” aimed at transforming travel to Fiji’s maritime and outer islands. During his presentation at the Fiji Tourism Convention 2024, which concluded in Denarau, Viljoen explained that the hybrid VTOL aircraft can take off and land vertically.
He emphasized the significance of this technology, noting that many islands in Fiji currently lack airport runways. The aircraft comes in two versions: a smaller cargo variant that operates similarly to a drone, capable of carrying up to 100 kilos with a 400-mile range, and a larger nine-seater passenger version, which includes a captain and a first officer.
Viljoen pointed out that the larger aircraft’s vertical take-off and landing capability means it could potentially land at hotels, making it a valuable addition to Fiji’s transportation options. He expressed enthusiasm about being the inaugural partner of Odys’ Aviation.