The Chairman of Fiji Airways’ Board, Mr. Nalin Patel,
Members of the Fiji Airways Board,
Managing Director & CEO of Fiji Airways, Mr. Andre Viljoen
Diplomatic Corp,
Distinguished Guests,
Members of the Media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Bula Vinaka and good evening to you all.
 
It is a great honour for me to be here with you all today as we celebrate yet another landmark achievement in Fiji Airways' remarkable journey.
 
The commissioning of these new Full Flight Simulators is not just a significant achievement for Fiji Airways but a momentous occasion for our Nation also.
 
Fiji Airways continues to set the bar high, not only in aviation but also in its commitment to our people.
 
The investments made in this state-of-the-art facility underscore the airline's dedication to technological advancement, operational excellence, and, most importantly, the development of our local talent.
This Academy is more than just a training facility; it is a beacon of opportunity for Fijians, particularly for our women, who have long been underrepresented in the aviation sector.
 
The establishment of this facility right here in Fiji is a game-changer, as Andre alluded to, removing barriers that have traditionally limited the participation of women in this field.
 
By providing world-class training locally, Fiji Airways is empowering more Fijians to pursue careers in aviation without the need to travel overseas.
 
This not only supports gender diversity but also strengthens our workforce, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of our nation.
 
The investment in these simulators, totaling around FJ$160 million, is a testament to Fiji Airways’ confidence in our country’s future.
 
It represents a broader commitment to enhancing Fiji’s position as a hub for aviation training in the Asia Pacific region.
 
This facility will attract trainees and pilots not only from Fiji but from across the region and the world, further establishing our Nation as a center of excellence.
 
Tourism, which is a vital pillar of our economy, stands to benefit greatly from such advancements.
 
Fiji Airways today brings in over 65-70% of all visitors into Fiji and their Marketing spend globally is higher than any other entity promoting travel and Tourism to Fiji.

The increased training capabilities of the Aviation Academy will ensure that we maintain the highest standards of safety and service, which are crucial in enhancing the travel experience of our visitors.
 
This, in turn, strengthens our tourism industry, bringing more revenue and opportunities to our shores.
 
Technological advancements like these simulators are crucial in our journey towards a more resilient and diversified economy.
 
They ensure that Fiji remains competitive on the global stage, offering cutting-edge training solutions that meet International Civil Aviation Organisation standards.
 
Moreover, these investments align with our government’s broader vision for sustainable development.
Fiji Airways is not only a leader in aviation but also a pioneer in environmental stewardship.
 
As we celebrate the commissioning of these advanced simulators, let us also acknowledge the airline's ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, implement fuel efficiency measures, and partner with environmental organizations to safeguard our natural heritage.
 
Fiji Airways is taking proactive steps towards aligning with the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
 
I understand that the airline plans to venture into the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which will play a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of air travel.

This commitment to SAF is a bold and necessary step towards a future where aviation is both efficient and environmentally responsible.
 
As part of its commitment to the environment, Fiji Airways pledged to plant one mangrove for every takeoff.
 
To date, the dedicated staff of Fiji Airways have planted 79,000 mangrove plants, which play a critical role in carbon sequestration.
 
Mangroves are exceptionally effective at this, sequestering four times more carbon than any other plant.
 
This initiative not only offsets carbon emissions but also contributes to the preservation of our coastal ecosystems.
 
Fiji Airways' advancements are not just beneficial for our nation but also for our neighbors in the Pacific.
 
These new simulators will enhance regional connectivity, allowing us to better serve and support the economies of our fellow Pacific Island nations.
 
This facility strengthens our role as a leader in regional aviation, bringing us closer together as a region.
 
The Academy's expanded capabilities will enable us to train pilots and engineers from across the Pacific, further solidifying Fiji's position as a hub for aviation training.
 
This is an opportunity to uplift the entire region by providing world-class training right here in the heart of the Pacific.
The investment in this facility translates directly into job creation and economic growth for our people.
 
The expansion of the Fiji Airways Aviation Academy has generated numerous job opportunities, from instructors and engineers to support staff and beyond.
 
This facility is a catalyst for economic activity, benefiting local businesses and contributing to the broader prosperity of our nation.
 
Fiji remains a prime destination for both foreign and domestic investments.
 
The success of Fiji Airways in making such substantial investments in high-tech infrastructure underscores our nation’s strong investment climate, particularly in sectors like aviation.

In closing, I would like to congratulate Fiji Airways for their vision and leadership in establishing this world-class facility.
 
It is a source of pride for our nation and a clear indication of the potential that lies within our people.
 
Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for Fiji, where opportunities are abundant, and our people can thrive in a rapidly changing world.
 
Vinaka vakalevu and thank you.