FIJI AIRPORTS CELEBRATES SILVER JUBILEE-(12-04-2024)

Fiji Airports Limited celebrated its 25th anniversary in Nadi last night, marking an important milestone in its journey as a key player in the aviation industry.

In delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said the celebration was an opportunity to reflect on Fiji Airports' journey, acknowledge achievements, and express gratitude to those who have contributed to the success of the organization.

"The People's Coalition Government is committed to continuing public sector reforms initiated in the 1990s by the SVT-GVP Coalition Government," he said.

"Public sector reforms were continued by the SDL Government, and the Bainimarama/Fiji First Administration as well and these reforms will continue with enhanced structural adjustment for fair competition and efficiency gains in all economic processes at all levels.

"As I said in Parliament last month, each Government has the responsibility to build on the achievements of previous administrations.

"Fiji Airports is key to realising our vision to be a vital player in aviation in the region."

Fiji Airports was formed 25 years ago to oversee our air space and airport operations efforts; ensure our leadership in the aviation industry; enhance cooperation with industry partners and stakeholders, and provide necessary economic and social support in terms of employment at Nadi International Airport, Nausori International Airport and the 13 outer station airports.

"To the Fiji Airports Family, you have grown from facilitating 500,000 passengers in 1999 to over 2 million passengers a year," he added.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Fiji Airports' efforts to reduce carbon emissions and attain net-zero status by 2050.

"Your commitment to transition to a sustainable, low-carbon functioning airport is commendable. This is in line with the national energy policy, and the global aviation industry goal for net-zero by 2050."

PM Rabuka highlighted that, "while there will always be challenges along the way, the people and government of Fiji are confident that you will continue to accommodate passenger growth with investment in resilient infrastructure".

"Well, done to the men and women of Fiji Airports."

"I look forward to Fiji Airport's continued contributions to Fiji's success as it works with industry partners to reshape the future of travel and aviation and deliver a positive impact on people and communities around the world."

PM Rabuka also paid tribute to those who oversaw the reform of CAAFI into Fiji Airports Limited, Air Terminal Services Limited and CAAF today and thereafter steered Fiji Airports to greater heights.

"Names like the late Jone Koroitamana, Isimeli Bose, Sakiusa Tuisolia and Faiz Khan come to mind, and countless men and women who sat on successive boards, at the helm of Fiji Airports over the years," he said.

"I wish to also thank the Fiji Airports Board of Directors, Management and staff, both past and present, for your hard work and commitment over the last quarter century."

At the event, the Prime Minister received the "Visionary Award"- a token of appreciation to honor the sacrifices his SVT-GVP Coalition Government made 25 years ago to establish the commercial company under the Public Enterprise Act.

Fiji Airports presently manages 15 airports in the country including, Nadi and Nausori International Airports.

#FijiGovernment#FijiNews#CoalitionGovernment#GovernmentNews#FijiAirports25#SilverJubilee