Fiji Airways has expanded its international reach with the introduction of its longest route, providing the first-ever direct link between Dallas Fort Worth, Texas, and Nadi, Fiji. This service will initially operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is recognized as the second most connected airport globally, enhancing accessibility for Fiji Airways passengers to various worldwide destinations.
Fiji Airways’ CEO and Managing Director, Andre Viljoen, remarked, “This new route significantly strengthens Fiji Airways’ connectivity across North America, simplifying travel for U.S. tourists to Fiji and the South Pacific. It will facilitate seamless transitions to Australia and New Zealand. In line with our commitment to ‘We Fly for Fiji,’ this service is expected to bring around 1,000 passengers to Fiji weekly, boosting our tourism industry and fostering new business connections between our countries.”
DFW’s Chief Executive, Sean Donohue, also expressed enthusiasm, stating that the airline’s service provides North Texas with non-stop access to Fiji, connecting it to DFW’s vast network of over 250 global destinations.
The inaugural flight, lasting approximately 13 hours, landed at DFW at 3:25 PM CST on December 10, 2024, and was welcomed with a ceremonial water cannon salute. The return flight from Dallas is scheduled to depart at 9:55 PM CST on the same day, arriving in Nadi, Fiji, at 5:20 AM local time on December 12, 2024.
The service will utilize the advanced Airbus A350-900 XWB aircraft, which accommodates 334 passengers, including 33 lie-flat business class seats designed for comfort.
This new DFW-NAN route marks a significant growth in Fiji Airways’ North American presence, joining other direct services to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu, and Vancouver, becoming the fifth North American route. As Viljoen noted, Dallas Fort Worth is a strategically vital hub, offering connections to numerous global cities and enhancing travel and business opportunities.
Additionally, this service represents Fiji Airways’ 26th international direct route. The airline plans to launch its 27th direct route to Cairns, Australia, starting April 10, 2025. This new route is a crucial element of Fiji Airways’ strategy to broaden its global network and improve Fiji’s international connectivity.
Further improvements are in the pipeline for the airline, including the integration of American Airlines’ AAdvantage® loyalty program next year and full membership in the oneworld® alliance by March 31, 2025, which will offer additional benefits for travelers.
To celebrate the launch, Fiji Airways is offering return flights from Nadi to Dallas Fort Worth starting at $1,999 per person until December 17, 2024.
This new route represents not just an expansion for Fiji Airways but also signals a burgeoning partnership between the U.S. and Fiji, inviting greater cultural exchanges and tourism opportunities. The advent of direct flights to and from Fiji can potentially enhance travel experiences and foster economic growth for both regions.
In summary, Fiji Airways’ new route is a promising development for travelers seeking an easy gateway to the South Pacific, highlighting the airline’s commitment to global expansion while supporting Fiji’s tourism industry.
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