Ensuring Aviation Safety and Regulatory Compliance in Fiji’s Flight Training Sector

2 October 2025, Suva – The Minister for iTaukei Affairs and Acting Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Ifereimi Vasu, has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to aviation safety following concerns raised in Parliament over disruptions faced by students of the Pacific Flying School.

Hon. Vasu made clear in Parliament today that the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) acted in full compliance with Fiji’s Air Navigation Regulations and international aviation standards. He noted that unapproved overseas engine overhauls triggered safety concerns, which required CAAF intervention to protect both students and Fiji’s aviation reputation.

The Minister stressed that delays arose from the operator’s non-compliance and incomplete submissions, not from regulatory inaction. Despite this, CAAF went beyond its planned work program, proposing audits, holding meetings, and ultimately issuing a conditional one-off approval on 16 September 2025 to enable training to continue under strict safety measures.

Hon. Vasu assured students and families that safety remains the top priority. “Safety first, due process always, and never at the cost of an accident we could have prevented,” he said.

Click here to download and read Hon Vasu’s Ministerial Statement: https://shorturl.at/YxVRd

jacktoto jacktoto jacktoto