Fiji Airways, the national airline of Fiji, today officially welcomed its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Scurrah, during a traditional Fijian ceremony held at the airline’s head office in Nadi. The event celebrated his appointment and reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to Fijian culture, its people, and world-class excellence.
Mr. Scurrah also shared an inspiring new challenge with the Fiji Airways Vuvale: “In the spirit of bold ambition and true to our Fijian warmth, I want to promise the world that Fiji Airways is the Happiest Airline in the World. I have every confidence that this claim is one we can truly stand behind.”
The ceremony, deeply rooted in Fijian tradition and symbolism, brought together Fiji Airways staff in a heartfelt celebration of culture and connection. In his address, Mr. Scurrah expressed sincere gratitude for the warmth and generosity of his welcome.
“Vinaka Vakalevu for such a warm and heartfelt reception. The spirit of unity and pride shown today truly reflects what makes this airline and its people so special,” he said. “To stand here among the Fiji Airways Vuvale—the people who make this airline what it is—is both an honour and a privilege.”
Mr. Scurrah took the opportunity to commend the entire Fiji Airways team for their ongoing achievements, including the airline’s recent international accolades.
“Just last night, at the prestigious APEX Awards in Singapore, Fiji Airways won Best Cabin Service and Best Food & Beverage in the South Pacific for 2026, recognition based on more than one million verified passenger votes. These awards affirm that the warmth and authenticity we are known for as Fijians are being felt by our guests around the world.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to leading the airline with humility, focus, and respect, adding: “My promise is simple: safety will always come first. I will listen, learn, and lead with humility. We will build on the strong foundation already in place—continuing to deliver world-class service, expand our network, and ensure every guest feels the mana of Fiji on every journey.”
Reflecting on lessons from recent years, he noted: “One powerful lesson that COVID taught us is that nothing in the airline industry can or should ever be taken for granted. The effort it took to get us here must be matched by the effort to keep improving, because if we’re not growing and evolving, we’ll quickly be left behind.”
He closed with a message of unity and gratitude, saying, “Our success doesn’t come from aircraft or infrastructure; it comes from our people. Your pride, professionalism, and passion are what keep us flying high. Together, we will continue to grow our airline, strengthen our culture, and show the world what the Spirit of Fiji truly means.”
The ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter for Fiji Airways, defined by leadership rooted in Fijian values, a continued pursuit of excellence, and a shared commitment to making Fiji Airways the Happiest Airline in the World.
Founded in 1951, the Fiji Airways Group includes Fiji Airways, Fiji’s international airline, and its wholly owned domestic and regional subsidiary, Fiji Link. Operating from its hubs at Nadi and Suva (Nausori) International Airports, the two carriers serve 36 destinations across 14 countries—including those operated through codeshare agreements and Fiji Link services.
As a full member of the oneworld alliance, Fiji Airways provides connectivity to over 900 destinations worldwide. Its network includes Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong (SAR China), Singapore, India, Japan, Mainland China, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands.
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REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.
