From the village of Dravo Bau in Tailevu, Fiji, to the buzzing hangars of Island Hoppers and Fiji Airways, Atunaisa Naivaluwaqa Robanakadavu is a young man with his eyes set firmly on the skies.
Now in his final year at the Fiji National University (FNU), studying for a Certificate IV in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, Atunaisa has completed a six-month attachment with Fiji Airways and is currently doing his on-the-job training with Island Hoppers.
For the 21-year-old, the journey into aviation has been one of determination, passion, and deep personal fulfillment.
“I’ve always been intrigued by aircraft,” he said.
“It was my dream just to set foot on one. Now, not only am I walking on aircraft, but I’m helping to maintain and repair them. It’s surreal.”
Entry into the program was competitive — only 30 students were accepted when he applied.
“I’m so grateful I made it in,” Atunaisa reflects.
“This was never going to be easy, but it was always worth it.”
While the technical side of aviation fascinates him, it’s the sense of teamwork that truly excites him about the industry.
“Both Fiji Airways and Island Hoppers taught me that family isn’t just about blood; it’s about the bonds you build through work. That support and unity motivates me every day.”
Atunaisa has chosen to specialize in mechanical systems within aircraft maintenance, an area to which he feels naturally drawn.
“Aircraft maintenance is divided into avionics and mechanical. I chose mechanical because I love working with components the moving, physical parts of the aircraft. It’s complex and hands-on, which really suits my learning style.”
Studying locally in Fiji was a practical decision, but he’s open to future opportunities abroad.
“Fiji is my home and FNU gave me access to the education I needed. But from what I’ve heard, training overseas often means better facilities and more exposure to live aircraft. That’s something I would love to experience one day,” Atunaisa said.
Reflecting on the post-pandemic recovery of Fiji’s aviation industry, Atunaisa is hopeful.
“We’ve seen great progress, more flights, more aircraft like the new ATRs joining the Fiji Airways fleet, and an increase in bookings. But there’s one thing that’s often overlooked – the engineers,” he said.
“Flights may seem smooth and routine, but behind every take-off and landing is a dedicated team of engineers working tirelessly around the clock. Our role is critical to keeping aircraft safe and running, and I genuinely love being part of that process.”