Press Release – Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka Addresses Parliament on Bird Strike Mitigation

Fiji Strengthens Aviation Safety: Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka Addresses Parliament on Bird Strike Mitigation

Suva, Fiji – 4 November 2025 – The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, addressed Parliament today on a growing aviation safety concern—bird strikes. His Ministerial Statement called for stronger national coordination to manage wildlife hazards that threaten aircraft safety and operational efficiency.

Hon. Gavoka explained that bird strikes—collisions between birds and aircraft during take-off or landing—can range from minor incidents to catastrophic failures. He referenced the December 2024 Jeju Air disaster in South Korea, which claimed 179 lives, as a global reminder of the dangers posed by wildlife hazards in aviation.

He also highlighted a recent local incident on October 9, 2025, involving Fiji Airways Flight FJ450 from Christchurch to Nadi. During take-off, the aircraft encountered a flock of pigeons, forcing an emergency return to Christchurch. No injuries were reported, but the aircraft sustained significant damage to its nose, wings, and engines. The event underscored the ongoing need for strict vigilance in aviation operations.

Fiji Airways and the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji have since completed investigations in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 standards. The Deputy Prime Minister revealed that in 2024 alone, Fiji Airways spent an estimated FJD $19.2 million repairing bird strike-related damage. A single turbine blade repair earlier this year cost $4.8 million.

Hon. Gavoka outlined the Government’s comprehensive strategy to tackle the issue. Fiji Airports has introduced a Wildlife Management Plan and established Airport Wildlife Committees to oversee mitigation efforts at Nadi, Nausori, and other airports. Measures include mapping and removing bird attractants within a 5km radius of airports, improving waste and drainage management, and tightening land-use regulations in surrounding areas.

Fiji Airways is complementing these efforts through enhanced pilot training, species identification from bird remains, and real-time data sharing with airport authorities.

To ensure a unified national approach, Cabinet approved the formation of the National Wildlife Hazard Management Committee for Aviation on August 14, 2025. The Committee will coordinate cross-sector initiatives involving government agencies, aviation operators, and environmental authorities.

“The Coalition Government remains committed to maintaining Fiji’s reputation as a safe and reliable aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Hon. Gavoka. “By investing in technology, enforcing sound policies, and working together across sectors, we will protect our skies and ensure the safety of all travellers.”

Click here to download and read Ministerial Statement: https://shorturl.at/tu77l

ENDS

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