In 2011, Air Pacific underwent a major transformation under the leadership of CEO David Pflieger, including significant financial recovery, modernization efforts, and new strategic partnerships. The airline reversed prior heavy losses, achieving a net profit of FJD 24.7 million, thanks to increased passenger numbers, reduced costs, and enhanced operations. Major initiatives included a proposed employee profit-sharing plan, a codeshare agreement with American Airlines, and recognition as one of the world’s top small airlines. Air Pacific also supported local institutions such as Fiji Rugby and expanded its regional subsidiary Pacific Sun’s capabilities.
The airline focused on growth and fleet modernization, ordering three new Airbus A330-200 aircraft—its first wide-body purchases—while also acquiring Boeing 737-800s and retiring older models. Flight schedules were optimized, particularly to Sydney, Auckland, and Hong Kong, to meet rising demand and improve connectivity. Strategic decisions were guided by efforts to lower operational costs, increase efficiency, and enhance customer experience. These comprehensive changes laid the foundation for Air Pacific’s long-term competitiveness in the face of rising fuel costs and low-cost carrier competition.
Fiji Airways timeline: Transformation and Growth in 2011
Air Pacific Board Endorses Profit Sharing for Employees
30 September 2011: The Board of Directors of Air Pacific took a historic step by approving in principle a profit-sharing program for all airline employees, marking the first time in the company’s 60-year history such a plan was considered. The announcement was made by Managing Director and CEO Dave Pflieger, who emphasized that this decision recognizes employees as the airline’s greatest asset. However, he noted that the program could only be implemented once a finalized plan receives approval and permanent cost savings have been secured through collaboration between management, employees, and unions to help finance the initiative. Pflieger expressed optimism that new employment agreements would be successfully negotiated to help return the company to profitability. He stressed that this profit-sharing program would help build a stronger partnership with the workforce and support Air Pacific’s ability to compete effectively despite challenges such as rising fuel costs and increased competition from low-cost carriers.
Air Pacific Announces FY2010/2011 Financial Results
20 August 2011: On 20 August 2011, Air Pacific announced its financial results for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2011, revealing a significant turnaround from the previous year. Air Pacific Ltd reported an operating loss of 3.6 million Fijian dollars, a dramatic improvement compared to the 91.8 million loss recorded the year before. Similarly, the broader Air Pacific Group, which includes the airline, its subsidiary Pacific Sun, and its stake in the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, reported an operating loss of 4.3 million, down from 78.5 million the previous year. More impressively, on a net basis including payments from the cancellation of delayed aircraft deliveries, Air Pacific Ltd achieved an after-tax statutory profit of 24.7 million, and the Air Pacific Group recorded a net profit of 25.2 million, reversing prior losses of 65.3 million and 58.9 million respectively.
Chairman Nalin Patel attributed this significant reduction in losses to the extensive efforts and strategic focus brought in by the new Managing Director and CEO David Pflieger, his management team, and the airline’s employees. Under their leadership, Air Pacific carried 37,000 more passengers, increased revenue by 40 million dollars, and cut non-fuel costs by 13 million. Despite these gains, the company faced challenges including a 39 million dollar rise in fuel costs and increased competition from two low-cost carriers entering Air Pacific’s largest market. CEO David Pflieger emphasized that the team’s success in improving customer satisfaction and operational performance had also contributed to the airline’s recognition as one of the top small airlines in the world.
During the fiscal year, Air Pacific launched a new route between Suva and Auckland, improved check-in times to boost punctuality, increased focus on the China and Hong Kong markets, restructured its regional carrier Pacific Sun, and transitioned to a new global reservations system. A comprehensive fleet and network assessment led to the addition of a new Boeing 737-800 and the decision to acquire new Airbus A330-200 aircraft. Looking forward, Mr. Pflieger stressed the importance of completing the airline’s restructuring in the face of rising fuel prices and ongoing competitive pressures.
He outlined key initiatives for the coming year, including the delivery of another Boeing 737-800, improved flight schedules with double daily Sydney flights starting in January 2012, a new codeshare agreement with American Airlines that would provide connections to nearly 20 U.S. destinations, and the acquisition of three new Airbus A330-200 aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2013. He expressed gratitude to customers, the board, and the entire Air Pacific team for their support and dedication during this pivotal turnaround period.
Air Pacific to Acquire New Airbus A330-200 Aircraft
01 August 2011: Air Pacific announced the purchase of three new Airbus A330-200 aircraft, set to arrive beginning early 2013, replacing its current B747 and B767 fleet. These new long-haul jets will operate flights from Sydney, Auckland, Hong Kong, and Los Angeles. Key highlights:
- This marks Air Pacific’s first-ever purchase of new wide-body aircraft.
- The A330-200s will feature state-of-the-art cabin seats, advanced in-flight entertainment, and a spacious 222-inch-wide fuselage, enhancing passenger comfort and cargo capacity.
- The aircraft design will reflect Fijian culture, reinforcing Air Pacific’s role as Fiji’s ambassador.
- Benefits include lower maintenance and operating costs, reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions, and increased revenue potential.
- The new planes will support Air Pacific’s goal to become the preferred airline in the South Pacific and potentially allow expansion to new destinations.
Air Pacific’s CEO David Pflieger and Chairman Nalin Patel praised the comprehensive fleet review and the dedicated efforts of the airline’s team in making this milestone possible. This acquisition is seen as a critical step toward long-term growth and revitalization of the airline.
Air Pacific Announces Fleet Changes and New Schedules for 2012
01 July 2011: Air Pacific revealed plans to modernize its fleet and improve flight schedules for 2012. The airline will add a new Boeing 737-800 in November 2011 and retire its older Boeing 767-300ER by mid-January 2012. Key changes include:
- Increasing Sydney flights from 7 to 13 weekly (10 with B737-800 and 3 with B747-400), offering morning and afternoon departures and better same-day connections to Fiji’s outer islands and resorts.
- Returning the B747-400 to Hong Kong, replacing the B767-300ER, adding 22% more seats with an initial schedule of two weekly flights, with plans to add more if demand grows.
- Maintaining the Nadi-Auckland schedule but increasing capacity by raising B747-400 service from one to three weekly flights.
These adjustments aim to enhance efficiency, meet customer demands, and support growth in key markets like Australia, Hong Kong, and New Zealand. Updated schedules and ticket sales will begin from 20 July 2011 on Air Pacific’s website.
American Airlines and Air Pacific Begin Codeshare Operations
15 June 2011: Following approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation, Air Pacific and American Airlines have started placing their codes on each other’s flights, expanding travel options for customers of both airlines. Air Pacific passengers can now book flights from Nadi to 23 U.S. cities including New York, Washington D.C., Las Vegas, Chicago, and San Francisco under Air Pacific’s ‘FJ’ code. Ticket sales opened immediately on Fiji Airways’ website.
David Pflieger, Air Pacific’s Managing Director and CEO, emphasized that this is the first time Fiji’s national carrier can sell tickets so broadly across the U.S. market, helping to grow Air Pacific’s presence and Fiji’s tourism industry. The partnership allows American Airlines’ extensive U.S. network to bring more travelers to Fiji, with cooperation from tourism stakeholders aiming to boost visitor arrivals and strengthen Fiji’s economy.
Pacific Sun Adds New DHC-6 300 Twin Otter Aircraft
30 May 2011: Pacific Sun, the domestic and regional subsidiary of Air Pacific, welcomed a newly leased DHC-6 300 series Twin Otter aircraft to its fleet at a traditional Fijian “cere” ceremony at Nadi International Airport. The aircraft arrived from the United States, ferrying across several stops including Honolulu and Christmas Island, and was blessed by a local pastor before being processed by customs and aviation authorities.
Pacific Sun General Manager Shaenaz Voss highlighted the modern and more capable 300 series plane as a key part of Pacific Sun’s turnaround plan focused on fleet replacement and schedule reliability. The aircraft will help restore a schedule of three daily flights between Nadi and Suva to key tourist destinations including Savusavu, Taveuni, and Kadavu.
The second replacement DHC-6 300 was expected to arrive in late June. The aircraft will soon receive Pacific Sun livery and seating before entering service, with full documentation and certifications to be completed shortly. Mrs. Voss credited the hard work and perseverance of Pacific Sun and Air Pacific teams over six months for making the aircraft acquisition possible.
Air Pacific Named Official Airline of Fiji Rugby
20 April 2011: Air Pacific and the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) announced a new partnership naming Air Pacific as the official airline of Fiji Rugby. The sponsorship agreement was signed in Suva by FRU’s Acting CEO Pio Bosco Tikoisuva and Air Pacific’s CEO David Pflieger. The partnership allows Fiji rugby teams and officials to use Air Pacific and its subsidiary Pacific Sun’s domestic and international networks to travel across Fiji and the region.
David Pflieger expressed honor in supporting Fiji Rugby and highlighted the airline’s longstanding support of the sport. He noted the sponsorship helps the “Flying Fijians” national team ahead of their Rugby World Cup trip to New Zealand and improves travel access for coaches, referees, and officials throughout Fiji, including outer islands. FRU CEO Pio Tikoisuva praised the growing partnership, stating that with Air Pacific as a sponsor, the rugby team truly embodies the spirit of the “Flying Fijians,” reflecting a proud homegrown organization competing internationally.
Air Pacific Ranked in Top 10 Small Airlines Worldwide by Condé Nast Traveler
30 March 2011: Air Pacific was ranked 7th among the world’s best small airlines in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards, based on nearly 29,000 travel magazine readers’ votes. This placed Air Pacific in the Top 30 airlines worldwide. David Pflieger, CEO of Air Pacific, expressed pride in the recognition, attributing it to the airline’s professionalism and commitment to superior passenger experiences highlighting Fiji’s renowned hospitality.
The award acknowledged Air Pacific’s reliable service, complimentary inflight meals, drinks, entertainment, Nadi airport lounge, and special treatment of Business (Tabua) Class passengers. Pflieger noted that this recognition from sophisticated travelers encourages the airline’s ongoing improvements in scheduling, partnerships, and fleet modernization, including the recent acquisition of a Boeing 737-800, an order for three Airbus A330-200 aircraft, and a pending codeshare with American Airlines.
Air Pacific Upgrades Its Fleet and Improves Schedule
20 February 2011: Air Pacific celebrated the addition of a new Boeing 737-800 aircraft at a ceremony with dignitaries, business and tourism leaders, employees, and their families. This was the airline’s first new aircraft since 2003 and marked a significant modernization effort. David Pflieger, Air Pacific’s CEO, said the new B737-800 offers more comfortable leather seats and enables more frequent flights between Nadi and Sydney. Starting January 2012, Air Pacific plans to nearly double weekly flights from Sydney from 7 to 13, with both morning and afternoon departures, including same-day connections to Fiji’s outer islands and resorts. The airline will also redeploy its Boeing 747-400 to focus on the Hong Kong market.
The aircraft was named Mamanuca Islands, honoring Fiji’s scenic islands important to the country’s economy and tourism. The new B737-800 is more fuel-efficient, expected to save over 90,000 gallons of fuel annually, reducing carbon emissions by nearly 1,000 metric tonnes, supporting Air Pacific’s environmental goals. The airline will retire an older Boeing 767 in January 2012 while maintaining sufficient cargo capacity with the new schedule.
American Airlines and Air Pacific Sign Codeshare Agreement
30 January 2011: American Airlines and Fiji-based Air Pacific announced a new codeshare agreement to expand travel options throughout the South Pacific and the United States. Pending U.S. government approval, American Airlines will place its code on Air Pacific flights between Los Angeles-Nadi, Honolulu-Nadi, and Nadi-Suva. Air Pacific will place its code on nearly 20 new destinations served from American’s Los Angeles hub.
Kenji Hashimoto, American’s VP of Strategic Alliances, said the partnership offers seamless connections to South Pacific destinations. Air Pacific CEO David Pflieger highlighted the benefits for travelers, including earning and redeeming AAdvantage® miles and enjoying premium services such as complimentary inflight meals and lounge access. The agreement strengthens American’s network, which offers more than 140 daily flights from Los Angeles to over 40 cities across Asia, Europe, and North America.
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, American Airlines and Air Pacific Sign Codeshare Agreement, 30 January 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 3 May 2024].
- Air Pacific, Air Pacific Upgrades Its Fleet; Improves Its Schedule, 20 February 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 11 April 2023].
- Air Pacific, Air Pacific Ranked in Top 10 in the World in Annual Conde Nast Traveler’s 2011 Global Survey, 30 March 2011 [online]. Available: Link [Accessed 18 June 2025].
- Air Pacific, Airline of Fiji Rugby, 20 April 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 29 January 2022].
- Air Pacific, Remarks by Managing Director and CEO Dave Pflieger at Special Ceremony to Farewell Team Fiji, 30 April 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 7 October 2023].
- Air Pacific, Pacific Sun Additional DHC-6 300 Aircraft Arrives, 30 May 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 12 March 2022].
- Air Pacific, American Airlines Begin Codeshare, 15 June 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 6 December 2023].
- Air Pacific, Air Pacific Announces Fleet Changes and New Schedules for 2012, 1 July 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 14 February 2024].
- Air Pacific, Air Pacific to Acquire New Airbus A330-200 Aircraft, 1 August 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 9 September 2022].
- Air Pacific, Air Pacific Announces FY2010/2011 Financial Results, 20 August 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 1 June 2024].
- Air Pacific, Air Pacific Board Endorses Profit Sharing for Employees, 30 September 2011 [online]. Available at: Link [Accessed 21 November 2023].
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.