Fiji Airways History 2012: Air Pacific, Fiji’s national airline, embarked on a major transformation initiative to modernise its fleet, improve service, and restore its original identity as Fiji Airways. The airline announced strategic partnerships with global aviation leaders to equip its incoming Airbus A330 aircraft with state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment, advanced seating, and high-quality cabin design. It also selected Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines to power these new aircraft, marking a significant investment in operational reliability and fuel efficiency. A key milestone was the unveiling of a new brand identity featuring a traditional Fijian Masi symbol, designed by local artist Makereta Matemosi, which embodied Fijian culture and values. Throughout the year, Air Pacific also strengthened its network by launching a direct Suva–Port Vila route and continued to upgrade its domestic operations through Pacific Sun, which recorded industry-leading results in on-time performance and technical reliability.
Alongside its business revitalisation, Air Pacific maintained a strong focus on community engagement and environmental responsibility in 2012. Through its Wings of Hope program, the airline provided over F$130,000 in donations to FRIEND, a local NGO supporting flood-affected children with scholarships and educational aid. Staff also participated in fundraising efforts during public events, showing deep corporate commitment. Air Pacific further reinforced its environmental stewardship by partnering with the Mamanuca Environment Society, contributing F$20,000 annually to support conservation and awareness initiatives. Meanwhile, safety remained a top priority, with Pacific Sun suspending services to Labasa due to runway hazards, pending further improvements. These actions underscored Air Pacific’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and the communities it served as it prepared for its rebrand to Fiji Airways in 2013.
Key Developments in Fiji Airways History
Charity Raffle
08 November 2012: At a special event marking the unveiling of its new Airbus A330 on Fiji Day, Air Pacific (soon to be rebranded as Fiji Airways) presented $36,700 raised through its Wings of Hope charity raffle to FRIEND (Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises n Development). This donation supports education for needy children across Fiji. Earlier in the year, Air Pacific had already donated $100,000 to FRIEND to aid children affected by devastating floods in Fiji’s Western Division. The airline matched 100% of all raffle ticket sales, reinforcing its commitment to charitable causes. Representing Air Pacific, Managing Director and CEO Dave Pflieger personally handed over the cheque to FRIEND founder Ms. Sashi Kiran at the NGO’s Lautoka headquarters.
Mr. Pflieger expressed pride in supporting FRIEND’s work, praising their impact on education and healthcare for Fijian children and families. Ms. Kiran thanked Air Pacific for their ongoing support and highlighted the airline staff’s extraordinary dedication in selling raffle tickets late into the night, showing genuine commitment beyond a typical corporate donation. This donation underscores Air Pacific’s strong focus on community involvement and social responsibility as part of its broader transformation.
Air Pacific ranked top 5 in the World in annual Conde Nast Traveler’s 2012 Global Survey
19 October 2012: Air Pacific has once again earned global recognition, ranking 5th among the Top 10 “Small Airlines” in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2012, moving up two places from last year’s 7th position. This accolade is based on votes from over 46,000 readers, reflecting the airline’s growing reputation for excellence in service, hospitality, and reliability.
CEO Dave Pflieger attributed the award to the dedication of the airline’s staff and the quality of its offerings, including complimentary in-flight meals, drinks, entertainment, and premium services for Business (Tabua) Class passengers. As Air Pacific nears completion of its transformation into Fiji Airways, this recognition highlights the airline’s ongoing progress toward becoming the preferred carrier in the South Pacific.
Pacific Sun Awaits Required Safety Improvements to Labasa Runway Before Re-Commencing Services
19 September 2012: Pacific Sun has announced the suspension of all flights to Labasa until further notice due to safety concerns with the recently repaired runway. Following a second inspection, the airline’s Safety and Flight Operations teams concluded that loose gravel and rocks pose significant risks to aircraft, particularly the ATR-42 and DH-6 Twin Otter engines. Passengers affected by the cancellations are encouraged to contact the Call Centre (3304388) for alternative arrangements, including rerouting to Savusavu, which remains operational with limited capacity via daytime-only Twin Otter flights from Nadi and Suva. Supplementary services to Savusavu will be offered, but availability is constrained due to aircraft size and airport limitations.
General Manager Shaenaz Voss emphasized that the decision, though difficult, prioritizes passenger and crew safety, citing multiple engine replacements this year due to runway-related damage. Flight operations to Labasa will resume only after Airports Fiji Limited (AFL) completes the required safety improvements and Pacific Sun’s safety teams confirm compliance.
Pacific Sun Reports All-time High Operational Achievements
03 September 2012: Pacific Sun, Fiji’s domestic airline and a subsidiary of Air Pacific, has reported record operational performance for August, achieving industry-leading results in on-time performance (OTP), technical dispatch reliability (TDR), and completion factor. August OTP reached 96%, with a year-to-date average of 88%, exceeding global benchmarks and demonstrating significant improvement from earlier in the year. General Manager Shaenaz Voss credited the turnaround to fleet upgrades, especially to the DH-6 Twin Otter aircraft, which have been equipped with new weather radar, GPS, and avionics systems. In August, Pacific Sun’s TDR was 99.6% and completion factor 98%, meaning nearly all flights were completed without delays or cancellations due to maintenance or weather.
As part of its transparency and customer commitment, Pacific Sun will now publicly report monthly performance metrics, reaffirming its dedication to reliability and service. One upgraded Twin Otter has already resumed service, flying to destinations including Savusavu, Taveuni, Kadavu, and Rotuma, with further aircraft enhancements underway.
Air Pacific Launches Direct Suva – Port Vila Service
29 August 2012: Air Pacific has announced the launch of a new direct weekly service between Suva, Fiji and Port Vila, Vanuatu, operated by its wholly owned subsidiary Pacific Sun using a 42-seat ATR42-500 aircraft. The non-stop flight will run every Sunday starting 16 September, reducing travel times and adding to the three-days-a-week connectivity between the two capital cities.
CEO Dave Pflieger highlighted the new service as a response to customer demand, especially benefitting regional students, academics, and inter-government organisations. To celebrate the launch, year-round return fares start at FJD522 / VUV20500, 30% cheaper than two one-way tickets, and include a light meal, beverages, and 23kg baggage allowance. The direct flight departs Suva at 9:30 AM and returns from Port Vila at 12:15 PM, arriving in Suva at 4:05 PM.
AIR PACIFIC Reveals New Brandmark for ‘FIJI AIRWAYS’
17 August 2012: Air Pacific has unveiled the new brandmark and symbol for its 2013 relaunch as ‘Fiji Airways’, introducing a distinctive Masi motif designed to reflect Fijian culture, heritage, and hospitality. Created by celebrated Fijian Masi artist Makereta Matemosi, the symbol features a central Teteva design representing the airline’s values—spirituality, connection, hospitality, and unity between Fiji’s 333 islands and the wider world.
This culturally rich brandmark is the latest step in the airline’s revitalisation plan, which includes new Airbus A330 aircraft, modern onboard features, and a complete rebranding to be completed by the end of 2013. CEO David Pflieger described the new visual identity as a “flying billboard for Fiji,” aimed at making the airline stand out globally while authentically representing the spirit of the Fijian people and their centuries-old traditions.
Fiji Airways Partners with Mamanuca Environment Society
03 August 2012: Air Pacific has announced a new corporate social responsibility initiative through a partnership with the Mamanuca Environment Society (MES), committing to an annual contribution of F$20,000 to support the organisation’s environmental conservation programs. The funding will aid MES’s ongoing efforts in environmental education, coral restoration, turtle conservation, waste management, and reef preservation in the Mamanuca Islands and Western Viti Levu.
Air Pacific CEO Dave Pflieger emphasized the airline’s dedication to protecting Fiji’s natural beauty and supporting the communities it serves. MES representative Betani Salusalu welcomed the partnership, noting that Air Pacific’s support reinforces its commitment to sustainable tourism and the long-term health of Fiji’s marine and island ecosystems.
Fiji Airways To Relaunch With New Partners Onboard
15 May 2012: As part of its ongoing revitalisation strategy and upcoming relaunch as ‘Fiji Airways’ in 2013, Air Pacific has announced three key strategic partnerships to enhance the onboard experience aboard its new Airbus A330-200 fleet. Revealed at the Bula Fiji Tourism Exchange (BFTE), the airline confirmed collaborations with Panasonic Avionics Corporation, Weber Aircraft (Zodiac), and Singapore Airlines Engineering Company (SIAEC)—all aimed at delivering a world-class product for international travellers.
Panasonic will install its advanced eX2 in-flight entertainment system in both Economy and Business Class; Weber Aircraft will supply ergonomically designed seats, each equipped with USB and power outlets; and SIAEC will oversee the interior design, specifications, and quality inspections for the new aircraft. These enhancements build on Air Pacific’s recent investments in new aircraft, increased service frequency, and upgraded lounges, reflecting its commitment to becoming a best-in-class airline when it transitions to the Fiji Airways brand in June 2013.
Fiji’s National Airline Achieves Another Milestone In Turnaround Strategy
14 May 2012: Air Pacific has announced it will rebrand and return to its original name, ‘Fiji Airways’, as part of a broader turnaround strategy aimed at restoring the airline’s profitability and strengthening its connection to Fijian identity. The name change, which revives the airline’s original 1951 name, aligns with recent investments in new aircraft, improved services, and an enhanced inflight product. The full transition to the Fiji Airways brand, including a new livery, will be completed by the end of 2013, beginning with the arrival of the new Airbus A330-200s.
CEO David Pflieger highlighted that the move will reinforce Fiji’s global image as a premier holiday destination while supporting tourism and economic growth. The rebranding follows a significant improvement in performance, including a major reduction in operating losses—from F$91.8 million in FY2009/10 to F$3.6 million in FY2010/11—as well as increased passenger numbers and revenue. Pflieger emphasized the airline’s commitment to growth, modernisation, and becoming the preferred airline of the South Pacific.
Fiji Airways Statement on the Fiji Civil Aviation Decree 2012
29 March 2012: Air Pacific has confirmed that the recently announced Fiji Civil Aviation Decree 2012 is a shareholder matter and does not impact daily operations. The airline emphasized that for customers and staff, it remains business as usual as efforts continue toward modernising and revitalising the airline. Reaffirming its long-term vision, Air Pacific stated that its mission remains unchanged: to become the preferred airline of the South Pacific and to proudly represent Fiji, the country it calls home.
New Tabua Club Lounge at Nadi International Airport
15 March 2012: Air Pacific has officially opened its new Tabua Club Lounge at Nadi International Airport, offering an upgraded pre-flight experience for Tabua Club members and paying guests. Located on the ground floor of the Departure Hall, the 75-seat lounge provides a quiet and relaxing space featuring locally-prepared hot and cold savouries, a wide selection of beverages, shower facilities, and high-speed internet—designed to serve travellers seeking comfort and convenience before international departures.
Access to the lounge is complimentary for Tabua Club members flying with Air Pacific on the same day, while other guests can purchase a day pass for F$75 at check-in or directly at the lounge. This new facility reflects Air Pacific’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and complements the airline’s Business Class Lounge, now reserved exclusively for Business Class passengers.
Air Pacific ‘Wings of Hope’ Gives $30,000 to FRIEND Fiji for Children’s Education Relief
22 February 2012: Air Pacific, through its Wings of Hope community program, has donated F$30,000 to Lautoka-based NGO FRIEND (Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development) to support education relief for children impacted by recent floods in Fiji. The donation, funded through staff efforts, corporate contributions, and passenger donations via the airline’s Cash for Kids initiative, will help flood-affected children stay in school by covering essential needs such as fees, books, and stationery.
At the donation ceremony in Nadi, Air Pacific CEO Dave Pflieger emphasized the airline’s responsibility to support local communities in times of crisis, praising FRIEND for its work with Fijian children. FRIEND Director Sashi Kiran expressed gratitude, noting the increased need due to widespread flood damage and disruption to livelihoods. The initiative reflects Air Pacific’s ongoing commitment to supporting the children of Fiji through its charitable programs.
Air Pacific Selects Rolls-Royce to Power Its New Fleet
14 February 2012: Fiji’s national airline, Air Pacific, has selected Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines to power its three new Airbus A330-200 aircraft, with the agreement—including long-term support services—valued at F$370 million (US$210 million) at current list prices. The announcement was made by CEO David Pflieger at the Singapore Airshow, who described the Trent 700 as the only engine specifically designed for the A330 and an essential part of Air Pacific’s fleet renewal and revitalisation strategy.
The aircraft, ordered in October 2011 in a historic first for the airline’s 62-year history, are scheduled to begin arriving in March 2013 and will operate routes between Fiji and Sydney, Auckland, Hong Kong, and Los Angeles. Rolls-Royce welcomed the partnership, and Pflieger emphasized the move as a major step in Air Pacific’s transformation, thanking customers and employees for their support during the airline’s ongoing 24-month transition period.
FURTHER READING: For those interested in exploring this topic further, additional resources and in-depth materials are provided below when available; otherwise, no further reading is included at this time.:
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.
- AIR PACIFIC Reveals New Brandmark for ‘FIJI AIRWAYS’ (2012) Fiji Airways. 17 August. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/New-Brandmark (Accessed: 18 June 2025).
- Air Pacific Launches Direct Suva – Port Vila Service (2012) Fiji Airways. 29 August. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Suva-to-Port-Vila-Direct-Service (Accessed: 15 June 2025).
- Air Pacific ranked top 5 in the World in annual Conde Nast Traveler’s 2012 Global Survey (2012) Fiji Airways. 19 October. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Top-5-in-Global-Survey (Accessed: 10 June 2025).
- Air Pacific Selects Rolls-Royce to Power Its New Fleet (2012) Fiji Airways. 14 February. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Rolls-Royce-to-Power-New-Fleet (Accessed: 12 June 2025).
- Air Pacific ‘Wings of Hope’ Gives $30,000 to FRIEND Fiji for Children’s Education Relief (2012) Fiji Airways. 22 February. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Wings-of-Hope-Gives (Accessed: 14 June 2025).
- Charity Raffle (2012) Fiji Airways. 08 November. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Charity-Raffle (Accessed: 13 June 2025).
- Fiji Airways Partners with Mamanuca Environment Society (2012) Fiji Airways. 03 August. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Mamanuca-Environment-Society (Accessed: 16 June 2025).
- Fiji Airways Statement on the Fiji Civil Aviation Decree 2012 (2012) Fiji Airways. 29 March. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Fiji-Civil-Aviation-Decree-2012 (Accessed: 11 June 2025).
- Fiji Airways To Relaunch With New Partners Onboard (2012) Fiji Airways. 15 May. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/New-Partners-Onboard (Accessed: 17 June 2025).
- Fiji’s National Airline Achieves Another Milestone In Turnaround Strategy (2012) Fiji Airways. 14 May. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Fiji-Airways (Accessed: 19 June 2025).
- New Tabua Club Lounge at Nadi International Airport (2012) Fiji Airways. 15 March. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/New-Tabua-Club-Lounge-at-Nadi-International-Airport (Accessed: 20 June 2025).
- Pacific Sun Awaits Required Safety Improvements to Labasa Runway Before Re-Commencing Services (2012) Fiji Airways. 19 September. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/Labasa-Runway (Accessed: 9 June 2025).
- Pacific Sun Reports All-time High Operational Achievements (2012) Fiji Airways. 03 September. Available at: https://www.fijiairways.com/en-us/media-centre/High-Operational-Achievements (Accessed: 8 June 2025).
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.