Fleet Size Will Increase, Both Boeing And Airbus Can Expect Orders

Fiji Airways announced details from its five-year strategic plan approved by the airline's board in mid-December 2013. Developed through input from customers, employers, and stakeholders, the plan includes three focus areas:  growing the number of aircraft and available seats; increasing operating profits and passenger numbers, and; expanding the airline's route network through key airline partnerships.

The airline will increase its fleet size by 25% with new A330-200, B737-800s and ATR72-600s aircraft. The additional aircraft will support plans to increase the number of available seats and passengers across all markets by 35% and 39%, respectively. The airline will also activate an aggressive financial performance strategy to increase operating profits above $100 million (FJD) (about $53 million U.S.), a goal calculated using current fuel prices and exchange rates.

"Our aim is to be a world-class airline matched by an ambitious but solid financial plan that expands on current successes and takes our airline to a new level," said Fiji Airways' Managing Director and CEO Stefan Pichler. In addition to increasing financial stability, building and maintaining a strong and loyal workforce also remain imperative. "We plan to increase total staff numbers by 28.5%. Part of our vision for 2017 is to be the Fijians' employer of choice," says Pichler.

In terms of network expansion, Fiji Airways will focus on the deliberate selection of new routes and airline partnerships through detailed scheduling studies and interlining and code-sharing opportunities. Recent amendments resulting from the plan include new direct Sydney-Suva and Apia-Suva services and changes to some Auckland-Nadi departure times.

"I'm very grateful for the Fiji Airways team and their tireless efforts in preparing the masterplan. We are confident that this will expand the airline's network and drive tourism in Fiji," Pichler said.

FMI: www.fijiairways.com