The Fiji Airways Aviation Academy is not just a training center but a significant source of opportunity for Fijians, especially for women who have historically been underrepresented in the aviation field, stated Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
During the inauguration of two new flight simulators and full flight training devices yesterday, Mr. Rabuka emphasized that the academy is providing world-class training for Fijians. He praised Fiji Airways for maintaining high standards in aviation and its dedication to serving the people.
“This academy represents more than just training; it is a beacon of opportunity for Fijians, particularly for women who have faced challenges in the aviation sector,” he remarked. “The establishment of this facility in Fiji is transformative.”
He highlighted that Fiji Airways is responsible for bringing in 65 to 70 percent of all visitors to Fiji, and its global marketing outreach surpasses that of any other entity promoting Fijian tourism. “These new simulators will improve regional connectivity and enhance our ability to support the economies of fellow Pacific Island nations,” he added.
Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO Andre Viljoen noted that the addition of the new simulators and flight training devices marks an important milestone in the development of the aviation academy. “We are now fully self-sufficient,” he said.
He explained that they had previously launched phase one, which included the installation of two full flight simulators in 2020. The current phase two investment amounts to $75 million, added to the original $85 million from phase one, resulting in a total investment of $160 million.