Fiji Airways

Fiji Airways is not merely a means of transport but the flying ambassador of its island nation, welcoming guests with the renowned "Bula" spirit from the moment they step on board. As the national carrier, it seamlessly bridges the pristine beauty of the South Pacific with major global gateways, ensuring that the journey to paradise is as relaxing as the destination itself. With a reputation for genuine hospitality and a rapidly modernizing fleet, the airline offers a distinctive and comfortable travel experience for adventurers and vacationers alike.

A Legacy of Connection
Founded in 1951 by aviation pioneer Harold Gatty, the airline has a rich history of connecting the islands to the world. Formerly known as Air Pacific, it rebranded to Fiji Airways in 2013 to better reflect its national heritage and role as a proud representative of Fiji. Today, it serves as a vital economic link for the region, operating scheduled international services that bring visitors to the heart of the South Pacific.

Global Reach and Key Routes
From its hub in Nadi, the airline operates an extensive network. Key routes include frequent flights to major Australian cities such as Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, as well as connections to New Zealand via Auckland and Christchurch. For long-haul travelers, the carrier provides essential links to North America, serving Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, and Honolulu. It also bridges the Pacific with Asia through flights to Hong Kong.

Within the region, the airline strengthens island connectivity with flights to Suva, Savusavu, Taveuni, and Labasa. It also serves neighboring island nations, flying to destinations like Nuku'alofa in Tonga, Apia in Samoa, and Port Vila in Vanuatu.

Modern Fleet and Service Excellence
Fiji Airways operates a modern fleet tailored for both long-haul efficiency and short-haul comfort. The lineup includes the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 XWB, Airbus A330s, and the Boeing 737 MAX 8. The airline is celebrated for its service, having received the Skytrax Best Airline Staff in Australia Pacific award multiple times. As a Oneworld Connect partner, it offers enhanced connectivity and benefits for global travelers. Safety remains a paramount value, with the airline maintaining strict adherence to international safety standards, including IOSA registration.

To assist travelers in the United Arab Emirates, Fiji Airways primarily provides support through its global reservation centers and digital channels. While there is no direct physical ticket office within the UAE, passengers can easily manage their bookings online or reach out to the 24/7 international support team for assistance with flights to the South Pacific.

Official Website
For the most up-to-date flight schedules and bookings, visit the official website:
https://www.fijiairways.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.fijiairways.com
• Global Reservations (24/7): +679 672 0888 (International call charges apply)
• Ticket Booking: +679 672 0888 (Global Reservations) or via local travel agents
• Email: reservations@fijiairways.com
• Mobile App: Fiji Airways (Available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

• Facebook
• Twitter/X
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

• Status: Currently, Fiji Airways does not operate a dedicated walk-in customer service office in the United Arab Emirates.
• Recommendation: Travelers are advised to use the official website for direct bookings or consult with certified local travel agencies in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
• Connections: Passengers typically connect through major partner hubs like Hong Kong to reach the airline's network.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

• Global Helpline: +679 672 0888 (Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
• Online Management: Use the "Manage Booking" tool on the official website for immediate changes to itineraries.

Preparing for a trip to the beautiful islands of Fiji starts with smart packing. Fiji Airways offers a generous baggage policy designed to accommodate everything from beachwear to adventure gear. Whether you are traveling light for a quick island hop or bringing equipment for a diving expedition, understanding the allowances for carry-on and checked luggage will ensure a smooth check-in process.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

All passengers flying with Fiji Airways are entitled to bring cabin baggage on board, though the specific allowance depends on the class of travel. It is important to adhere to weight and dimension limits to ensure all items fit safely in the overhead lockers.

• Economy Class: Passengers are generally allowed one piece of carry-on luggage weighing up to 7kg (15lbs). In addition, you may bring one small personal item, such as a laptop bag or purse, which must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Business Class: Travelers in Business Class typically enjoy a higher allowance, often permitting two pieces of carry-on luggage, each weighing up to 7kg (15lbs), plus one small personal item.

Checked Baggage Policies

Fiji Airways uses two different systems for checked baggage depending on your route: the Weight Concept and the Piece Concept. It is crucial to check your ticket confirmation to see which applies to your specific journey.

• Routes to/from the USA and Canada: These flights operate on the Piece Concept. Economy passengers usually receive an allowance of one checked bag up to 23kg (50lbs), while Business Class passengers are typically allowed two bags up to 32kg (70lbs) each. Flights to destinations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu follow this rule.
• Other International Routes: For flights connecting Fiji with Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, the Weight Concept applies. Economy Class passengers generally get a total allowance of 30kg (66lbs), and Business Class passengers get 40kg (88lbs). You can spread this weight across multiple bags as long as the total does not exceed the limit.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you plan to travel with more than the free allowance, it is highly recommended to purchase prepaid excess baggage online before your flight. Prepaid rates are significantly cheaper than paying at the airport counter on the day of departure. Fees vary based on the route and whether you are paying for extra weight (per kilogram) or an extra piece of luggage.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Given that Fiji is a premier destination for water sports and golf, Fiji Airways is accustomed to handling sports equipment. Items such as surfboards, golf clubs, and diving gear can often be included as part of your standard checked baggage allowance, provided they do not exceed size and weight restrictions.

• Surfboards: Due to the popularity of surfing in Fiji, surfboards are accepted but may incur a handling fee depending on their size and the route. Always pack fins and delicate parts securely.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on board if they fit within the cabin baggage dimensions. Larger instruments usually require a separate seat booking or must be checked in as fragile baggage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. These include explosives, flammable liquids, and oxidizing materials. Lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on baggage and are not permitted in checked luggage. Sharp objects, such as scissors or knives, must be packed in your checked bags.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to avoid surprises at the airport.
• Label Everything: distinct luggage tags with your current contact details help reunite you with your bags if they are delayed.
• Pack Essentials in Carry-On: Always keep medications, travel documents, and a change of clothes in your cabin bag in case of unexpected delays.
• Check Partner Airlines: If your itinerary includes flights with other carriers (codeshare partners), check their baggage rules as they may differ from Fiji Airways' policies.

Traveling with pets on Fiji Airways requires careful planning, as the airline enforces strict policies to comply with the rigorous biosecurity laws of Fiji and its regional neighbors. Generally, pets are not permitted in the passenger cabin and must travel as Manifest Cargo to ensure safety and adherence to import regulations.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

For the safety and comfort of all passengers, Fiji Airways generally does not allow pets to travel in the cabin. This policy applies to all international and domestic flights.

• Exceptions: Only fully trained and certified Service Dogs assisting passengers with disabilities are permitted in the cabin.
• Requirements: Service dogs must be harnessed, leashed, and seated at the passenger's feet without obstructing aisles.
• Advance Notice: You must notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure and provide relevant training documentation.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Transporting pets as checked baggage (accompanied by the passenger but in the hold) is strictly limited and often not available due to aircraft limitations and quarantine rules.

• Availability: This option is rarely available for international arrivals into Suva or Nadi due to government mandates requiring cargo processing.
• Domestic Flights: On domestic "Fiji Link" flights (using ATR or Twin Otter aircraft), live animals are typically not accepted as checked baggage.
• Recommendation: Travelers should assume this option is unavailable and plan for the "Manifest Cargo" service unless explicitly advised otherwise by the airline.

As Cargo (Manifest Cargo)

This is the standard and often mandatory method for transporting pets with Fiji Airways. Animals travel as freight, allowing for proper veterinary checks and biosecurity processing upon arrival.

• Booking: Must be arranged through the Fiji Airways Freight Department or a specialized pet relocation agent.
• Crate Requirements: Animals must be in an IATA-compliant crate that is leak-proof, well-ventilated, and large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Check-in: Pets are dropped off at the freight terminal, not the passenger check-in counter, usually several hours before the flight.

Required Documentation

Documentation is critical, especially for entering Fiji, which is a rabies-controlled environment.

• Import Permit: A valid Import Permit from the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) is mandatory for all animals entering the country.
• Veterinary Health Certificate: Must be issued by a registered veterinarian within a specific timeframe (usually 10 days) before travel.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, specifically for Rabies, Parvovirus, Distemper, and Hepatitis.
• Laboratory Tests: A Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) is often required for international entry.
• Biosecurity Clearance: Confirmation of quarantine reservation if applicable (Fiji requires a mandatory quarantine period for most imported pets).

Service Costs

Costs for pet travel are calculated based on the weight and size of the animal and crate, as well as the route.

• Service Dogs: Transported free of charge in the cabin.
• Cargo Fees: Calculated based on volumetric weight; typically significantly higher than excess baggage fees.
• Handling Surcharges: Additional fees apply for livestock or live animal handling (often a percentage surcharge on the base rate).
• Quarantine Fees: Owners are responsible for all costs associated with veterinary inspections and quarantine accommodation in Fiji.

Preparation Tips

• Hydration: Freeze water in the crate's bowl so it melts slowly during the flight, preventing spills.
• Acclimatization: Let your pet spend time in their travel crate weeks before the trip to reduce stress.
• No Sedation: Do not sedate your pet, as it can affect their breathing and regulation of body temperature at high altitudes.
• Check Aircraft: Confirm that your specific aircraft type is equipped to carry live animals, as some smaller regional planes cannot accommodate them.

Restrictions

Fiji Airways and the Fijian Government impose strict bans on certain animals to protect local safety and biodiversity.

• Banned Breeds: Aggressive dog breeds are prohibited, including Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, and Pit Bull Terriers (including American Pit Bulls).
• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) may be restricted or require larger crates due to breathing risks during air travel.
• Pregnancy: Females more than 21 days pregnant are generally not accepted for travel.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 12–16 weeks old to travel internationally.

Important: Pet travel rules are subject to frequent change due to biosecurity updates. You must contact Fiji Airways Freight Department and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) directly before booking any travel to ensure your pet meets all current entry and transport requirements.

Loyalty Program: AAdvantage®

Fiji Airways has adopted the AAdvantage® program, marking a significant milestone in its journey as a full member of the oneworld® alliance. This partnership allows travelers to earn and redeem miles globally, offering a seamless rewards experience whether flying to the pristine beaches of Fiji or connecting through major international hubs. While the airline retains its subscription-based Tabua Club for immediate priority perks, AAdvantage® serves as the primary frequent flyer scheme for earning miles and elite status.

Membership Tiers

The AAdvantage® program offers a tiered structure that rewards frequent travelers with increasing benefits. As you earn Loyalty Points, you progress through the status levels, unlocking exclusive privileges on Fiji Airways and its partners.

• AAdvantage® Member: The entry-level tier allows you to start earning miles on flights and with partners, which can be redeemed for award travel.
• Gold (oneworld Ruby): Offers priority check-in, a 40% mileage bonus on flights, and complimentary preferred seat access where available.
• Platinum (oneworld Sapphire): Includes priority boarding, a 60% mileage bonus, and access to frequent flyer lounges, including the Fiji Airways Premier Lounge.
• Platinum Pro & Executive Platinum (oneworld Emerald): The top-tier elite levels provide the highest priority privileges, including First Class lounge access, generous baggage allowances, and up to a 120% mileage bonus.

Earning Miles and Points

Members can accumulate miles and Loyalty Points through a wide variety of activities, making it easy to reach the next status level.

• Flights: Earn miles on every eligible flight marketed and operated by Fiji Airways, as well as on all oneworld® alliance carriers.
• Partner Airlines: Accrue miles when flying with extensive global partners beyond the alliance network.
• Everyday Partners: Earn points through hotel stays, car rentals, and cruise bookings associated with the program.
• Dining and Shopping: Use the AAdvantage® eShopping portal and dining program to earn miles on everyday purchases.

Redeeming Miles

The miles you earn open the door to a world of travel possibilities, offering flexibility and value.

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for flights to Fiji or hundreds of other destinations across the oneworld network, including popular routes like Sydney and Los Angeles.
• Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade your seat to Business Class for a more comfortable journey across the Pacific.
• Partner Rewards: Exchange miles for hotel stays, car rentals, and exclusive vacation packages.
• Lifestyle Awards: Options to redeem for magazines, newspaper subscriptions, or charitable donations.

Alliance Membership

Fiji Airways is a proud full member of the oneworld® alliance, connecting passengers to more than 900 destinations globally. This membership ensures that your status and benefits travel with you.

• Alliance Name: oneworld®
• Key Partner Airlines: American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Qatar Airways, and Japan Airlines.

How to Join

Joining the program is simple and free. Travelers can sign up online through the official AAdvantage® registration page. Once enrolled, simply quote your membership number when booking flights with Fiji Airways or any partner airline to ensure your miles are automatically credited.

Experience the warmth of Fijian hospitality the moment you step on board. Fiji Airways is renowned for its genuine "Bula Spirit," ensuring that your journey across the Pacific is as relaxing and welcoming as the islands themselves. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the airline offers a range of services designed to provide comfort, connectivity, and a taste of the South Pacific at 30,000 feet.

Economy Class
Travelers in Economy Class enjoy a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. The cabin is designed with a fresh, modern aesthetic inspired by the vibrant patterns of Fijian Masi art. Seats are equipped with adjustable headrests and offer generous legroom, particularly on the airline's flagship Airbus A350 aircraft. On long-haul flights to destinations like Los Angeles and San Francisco, passengers are provided with pillows, blankets, and amenity kits to ensure a restful journey.

Business Class
For those seeking a premium experience, Business Class serves as the airline's highest tier of service (Fiji Airways does not operate a separate First Class cabin). Passengers enjoy priority check-in, increased baggage allowance, and access to exclusive lounges, including the flagship Premier Lounge in Nadi. Onboard the wide-body fleet (Airbus A350 and A330), the experience features lie-flat beds with direct aisle access on the A350, ensuring maximum privacy and sleep quality. The cabin offers a refined dining experience, noise-canceling headphones, and a large personal entertainment screen, making flights from cities like Sydney or Hong Kong truly effortless.

In-Flight Dining
Dining with Fiji Airways is a culinary journey inspired by the flavors of the South Pacific. Economy passengers receive complimentary hot meals and beverages, including a selection of wines and beers on international flights. Business Class guests are treated to a three-course fine dining menu curated by renowned chefs, featuring fresh local ingredients and paired with premium liquors and award-winning wines. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Entertainment and Connectivity
Boredom is not an option with the "FijiTime" in-flight entertainment system. Available on most international flights, it offers a wide selection of Hollywood blockbusters, TV shows, music, and games. On the modern Airbus A350 and Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, passengers can also stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi. Business Class passengers receive complimentary Wi-Fi access, while Economy guests can purchase data plans to message friends or browse the web while flying over the ocean.

Family and Special Services
Fiji Airways takes special care of its youngest guests through the "Lailai" program. Children receive activity packs to keep them entertained, and a dedicated kids' channel is available on the entertainment system. For passengers requiring special assistance, such as wheelchair service or medical oxygen, the airline provides dedicated support to ensure a safe and smooth journey. It is recommended to request these services at the time of booking, especially for connecting flights from regional centers like Suva or Auckland.

Fiji Airways connects the world to the South Pacific through its primary hub in Nadi. The airline's network is strategically designed to link the islands of Fiji with major international gateways across Oceania, North America, and Asia, while also providing essential domestic services that make exploring the archipelago seamless.

Domestic Connections
From Nadi, the airline offers frequent flights to key destinations within Fiji, acting as a vital bridge for both locals and tourists. Travelers can easily reach the capital city of Suva. For those looking to explore the pristine environments of the northern islands, the carrier provides services to Savusavu, Taveuni, and Labasa, facilitating access to some of the country's best diving and nature spots.

Australia and New Zealand
The airline operates a robust schedule to its closest international neighbors. In Australia, direct flights connect Nadi with the major east coast cities of Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, as well as the tropical city of Cairns. Across the Tasman Sea, regular services to New Zealand depart from both Auckland and Christchurch, serving the strong travel demand between the regions.

North America
Fiji Airways serves as a key connector for long-haul travelers from the United States. The route network includes direct flights to Nadi from major hubs such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Dallas. Additionally, the airline operates flights to Honolulu, linking Fiji with the Hawaiian Islands.

Pacific Islands and Asia
Strengthening regional ties, the airline flies to several neighboring Pacific island nations, including Nuku'alofa in Tonga, Apia in Samoa, and Port Vila in Vanuatu. Bridging the Pacific with Asia, the carrier also maintains a popular route to the global financial hub of Hong Kong.

Securing the best fares with Fiji Airways often requires a bit of forward planning. To find the most attractive prices, it is generally recommended to book your tickets well in advance, particularly if you intend to travel during peak holiday seasons in the South Pacific. Being flexible with your travel dates can also be advantageous, as flying mid-week often results in lower fares compared to weekend departures.

To stay updated on special offers and exclusive deals, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or monitoring their official website. Fiji Airways frequently releases promotions for flights connecting through their main hub in Nadi. If you are planning a trip to regional destinations like Suva, checking for these seasonal sales early can lead to significant savings.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing the online check-in service, which typically opens 24 to 48 hours before your scheduled departure. This convenient feature allows you to confirm your details, select your preferred seat, and obtain your boarding pass digitally. Using the official mobile app makes this process even smoother, providing easy access to real-time flight updates and mobile boarding passes.

For a more comfortable journey, consider selecting your seat as early as possible. While specific seat assignments may incur a small fee, securing a window or aisle seat can greatly enhance your experience, especially on longer flights. Additionally, it is always wise to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations or baggage delays, ensuring you travel with peace of mind.

Founding and Early Years
The story of the airline began in 1951 when aviation pioneer Harold Gatty founded the company under the name Katafaga Estates. It officially commenced operations as a domestic carrier, utilizing a modest 7-seater De Havilland Dragon Rapide to connect the dispersed islands of the archipelago. In its initial years, the airline provided essential links between the main island of Viti Levu and the northern islands, laying the groundwork for what would become the region's premier carrier. By the late 1950s, the network had expanded, and the company was acquired by Qantas, marking the beginning of its evolution into an international entity.

The Air Pacific Era
In 1971, the airline underwent a significant transformation, adopting the name Air Pacific to reflect its growing role as a regional carrier for the South Pacific. This era marked the dawn of the jet age for the company, with the introduction of the BAC One-Eleven in 1972, allowing for faster connections to regional neighbors. The airline continued to modernize its fleet throughout the 1980s, introducing the Boeing 747 "Queen of the Skies" to launch long-haul services. This strategic move opened the door to major tourism markets, establishing direct links to North America and ensuring a steady flow of visitors to the islands.

Domestic Consolidation
To strengthen its domestic footprint, the airline acquired Sun Air in 2007, a local carrier specializing in inter-island travel. This subsidiary was rebranded as Pacific Sun and later as Fiji Link. The acquisition was a crucial milestone, ensuring seamless connectivity for international arrivals transferring to smaller airports like Suva, Labasa, and Taveuni. Today, this integrated network allows travelers to move effortlessly from wide-body international flights to regional turboprop services, reaching remote diving and resort destinations with ease.

Rebranding and Modern Identity
In 2013, the airline returned to its roots by rebranding as Fiji Airways. This change was more than just a new name; it represented a complete overhaul of the brand's identity to better align with the nation's culture. The new livery featured distinctive Masi symbols, traditional indigenous art forms that represent the spirit of the Fijian people. Coinciding with the rebrand, the airline began a comprehensive fleet renewal program, retiring older Boeing 747s and 767s in favor of modern, fuel-efficient Airbus A330s, positioning the carrier as a world-class boutique airline.

Global Expansion and Fleet Evolution
The modern era has seen aggressive expansion into key global markets. The airline has solidified its presence in the United States, operating regular flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu, and has recently added Dallas to its network. Eastward connectivity was bolstered with services to Hong Kong, bridging the Pacific and Asia. Closer to home, the carrier maintains high-frequency connections with Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Auckland, and Christchurch. To support these long-haul routes, Fiji Airways welcomed the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 XWB into its fleet in 2019, offering lie-flat Business Class seats and enhanced cabin comfort.

Strategic Partnerships and Future
Continuing its trajectory of growth, the airline has strengthened its regional dominance by serving Pacific neighbors such as Nuku'alofa, Apia, and Port Vila. A major achievement in its recent history was joining the oneworld alliance, initially as a Connect partner and moving toward full membership. This integration allows passengers to enjoy seamless travel benefits across a global network of premium airlines, cementing Fiji Airways' status as a key player in international aviation.