The Government of Fiji through the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation strongly refutes the misinformation in a series of social media posts that have irresponsibly and inaccurately portrayed Fiji’s aviation licensing system as being in crisis. These claims are not only factually incorrect but also recklessly misleading, and they threaten to undermine the credibility of Fiji’s aviation sector and its global reputation.
Fiji’s Licensing Regime Meets Global Standards
Fiji’s aviation licensing framework is fully aligned with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and reflects international best practices. Our licensing processes are rigorous, transparent, and subject to regular oversight. Fijian pilots continue to successfully convert their licenses for use in jurisdictions across the globe, including Australia, New Zealand, the United States (FAA), and Europe (EASA), a clear testament to the global trust in our system.
Highly trained personnel oversee licensing
Contrary to claims made, Fiji’s licensing processes are overseen by qualified officers. The Manager Personnel Licensing and the Personnel Licensing Inspector are the only two Fijians in history to hold ICAO Government Safety Inspector (GSI) certification for Personnel Licensing. This certification is the international benchmark for regulators overseeing pilot, aircraft engineering and air traffic controller licensing. Their role is to ensure that every license issued meets the strict standards required by ICAO and recognized globally.
Baseless hearsay with serious consequences
Assertions of oversight failure, licensing irregularities, and personal attacks on CAAF staff are unsubstantiated and inflammatory. CAAF maintains strict protocols for license issuance, renewal, and inspector training. Any concerns raised are addressed through formal channels and in accordance with ICAO procedures, not through speculative and sensationalist social media commentary.
Unverified commentary suggesting that Fiji’s pilot licenses are invalid or at risk of rejection overseas is not only false, but also irresponsible. Such hearsay has the potential to undermine confidence in Fiji’s aviation system, create unnecessary alarm, and unfairly tarnish the standing of our pilots, aircraft engineers and air traffic controllers.
Call for Responsible Discourse
The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation will not tolerate the spread of misinformation that could jeopardise Fiji’s aviation credibility and economic stability. We urge all parties to exercise responsibility and verify facts before making public statements that could have damaging consequences for our pilots, aircraft engineers, air traffic controllers, and our nation.
Government’s assurance
The Government of Fiji through the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation reaffirms its full confidence in CAAF’s oversight of licensing and training. Fiji’s aviation system remains safe, credible, and recognized internationally. We urge all Fijians to treat social media speculation with caution and rely on verified information from official sources.
The safety, security, and credibility of Fiji’s aviation sector is paramount. The Government will continue to support CAAF in maintaining the highest standards of oversight, consistent with ICAO and global best practice.
Hon. Viliame Gavoka
Deputy Prime minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation