THE region’s largest airline has promised to continue its services from the Pacific to major global hubs despite the war in Iran.
Fiji Airways’ Executive Manager of Industry, International and Government Affairs and Corporate Communications, Kameli Batiweti, said Pacific countries could have confidence in the airline’s continued service.
“We are not pulling out,” he told delegates at the South Pacific Tourism Expo in Nadi, Fiji.
“In fact, talking about Apia, we would like to increase the trip to Apia, that is currently flying twice.”
Responding to concerns over the impact of the Middle East crisis, Batiweti confirmed the airline would maintain its routes and was looking to expand services.
His comments follow reports from New Zealand media that Air New Zealand’s flights to the Pacific could be affected by rising fuel prices.
Fiji’s Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, said partnerships had strengthened significantly over the past two years.
“It’s quite significant… it has developed over the last two years or so in the relationship,” he said.
At SPTE 2026, Batiweti reinforced that connectivity and partnerships remain central to the airline’s strategy, describing tourism and aviation as inseparable.
“Connectivity is what enables tourism growth, trade, and economic resilience across the Pacific Islands,” he said.
“Our focus remains on strengthening access to key global markets while connecting the Pacific Islands not only to the world, but with each other.”
He added that despite global uncertainty, Fiji Airways continues to prioritise network resilience and strategic route development to maintain consistent visitor flows and support economic stability.
Sustainability remains a key focus, with Batiweti highlighting Fiji Airways’ Roya Framework and Action Plan to reduce environmental impact. He also acknowledged SPTO’s single-use plastic-free initiative at this year’s conference.
Batiweti emphasised that maintaining market confidence, managing crises, and driving growth all depend on strong partnerships between tourism and aviation.
“Fiji and the Pacific Islands compete on a world stage. We offer our unique and authentic culture, natural beauty, and we connect our guests using the happiest airline in the world,” he said.