National Civil Aviation Security and Facilitation Committees Reconvened After 17 Years
11 September 2025 – Lami, Fiji – The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, under the Coalition Government, has reconvened the National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) and the National Facilitation Committee (NFC) after a lapse of 17 years. The opening ceremony was held this morning at the Novotel Hotel in Lami and was officiated by the Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka.
In his keynote address, Hon. Gavoka said the reconvening of the committees reflects Fiji’s renewed commitment to strengthening aviation security and facilitation. He stressed that today’s meeting, held on September 11, serves as a reminder of the tragic events of 2001 that reshaped global aviation and highlighted the importance of continued vigilance.
He reaffirmed Fiji’s obligations under the International Civil Aviation Organization, emphasizing that compliance with global standards is vital to maintaining Fiji’s reputation as a safe destination and protecting the economy and tourism industry. He noted that government priorities include the implementation of Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record systems to strengthen Fiji’s ability to respond to cross-border threats, in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions.
He also highlighted Fiji’s commitment to adopting digital identity management and biometric technologies, as advanced during the ICAO Facilitation Conference in Doha earlier this year.
Hon. Gavoka reminded participants that aviation is more than connectivity for Fiji, it is an economic lifeline. He urged all stakeholders including border agencies, law enforcement, airlines, regulators, and technology teams to collaborate in safeguarding Fiji’s aviation system and building resilience.
The agenda for the meeting includes strengthening the committees’ terms of reference, reviewing security measures and legislation, and updating the National Aviation Plan, among other areas of priority.
Hon. Gavoka officially declared the meetings open, describing them as a renewed call to action to address long-standing challenges, strengthen partnerships, and ensure a safer future for Fiji’s aviation sector.
ENDS
