Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka has expressed significant concerns in Parliament regarding an aviation training school that appears to be falling short of international standards. He questioned whether Fiji should continue to send students to this institution, emphasizing the importance of accredited training programs in maintaining aviation safety.
During the parliamentary session, Mr. Gavoka highlighted that the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) is unable to validate certificates issued by the school due to its non-compliance with global regulations. “Training in aviation must be accredited to the standards established by CAAF,” he stated, underscoring that without this validation, a graduation certificate from the training provider is essentially “meaningless.”
He acknowledged the emotional impact this situation has on the aspiring pilots caught in the middle, yet he maintained that the integrity of aviation safety should never be compromised. The Deputy Prime Minister elaborated on the attempts made by CAAF to rectify the training provider’s deficiencies, stating, “We have engaged with this school in various ways to enable their compliance, but breaches continue.”
At the heart of this inquiry, Mr. Gavoka posed a critical question to Parliament: “Should we continue to permit this trainer to instruct our pilots if he does not adhere to CAAF’s standards?” His remarks were a strong reminder of the rigorous requirements necessary to ensure safety within the aviation sector.
This issue aligns with previous discussions about Fiji’s aviation licensing system and its adherence to international standards, which have been defended by the government against allegations of crises within the aviation sector. The ongoing commitment to align Fiji’s laws and practices with that of the international frameworks underscores the administration’s dedication to maintaining safety and transparency.
Officials have reiterated that the licensing framework is effective and overseen by qualified personnel, ensuring compliance while addressing any emerging concerns through proper channels. The emphasis on regulatory integrity is crucial for fostering confidence among the public and the international community.
In light of these developments, Fiji’s proactive stance on aviation safety reflects a broader dedication to improving training, compliance, and operational excellence. This situation serves as a wake-up call to reinforce the importance of adhering to international aviation standards, ultimately fostering a safer environment for air travel. With continuous commitment to reform and modernization, Fiji’s aviation sector is poised for a hopeful and secure future, ensuring the utmost safety for all involved.
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