Developed through input from customers, employers, and stakeholders, the plan includes three focus areas: (1) growing the number of aircrafts and available seats, (2) increasing operating profits and passenger numbers, and (3) expanding the airline's route network through key airline partnerships.
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: (1) growing the number of aircrafts and available seats, (2) increasing operating profits and passenger numbers, and (3) expanding the airline's route network through key airline partnerships.
(1) The airline will increase its fleet size by 25% with new A330-200, B737-800s and ATR72-600s aircrafts. The additional aircraft will support plans to increase the number of available seats and passengers across all markets by 35% and 39%, respectively.
(2) The airline will activate an aggressive financial performance strategy to increase operating profits above $100m (FJD), a goal calculated using current fuel prices and exchange rates.
Stefan Pichler, Fiji Airways' Managing Director and CEO, states "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."
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.
(3) 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.
Pichler concludes, "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."
About Fiji Airways: Founded in 1951, Fiji Airways is Fiji's national airline and aims to become the airline of choice of the South Pacific. From its hub at Nadi International Airport, Fiji Airways and its subsidiary, Pacific Sun, fly to 15 cities in 10 countries. Destinations include Australia, New Zealand, USA, Hong Kong, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Vanuatu, and Solomon Islands. Fiji Airways transports over 64% of all visitors who fly to Fiji, and the two companies earn revenues of over $380m USD. Fiji Airways rebranded from Air Pacific in June 2013.
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