Suva, Fiji – 22 March 2025 – The third Regional Aviation Ministers Meeting (RAMM3), hosted by the Government of Fiji at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, concluded yesterday with the historic adoption of the Suva Declaration on Regional Collaboration and Aviation Connectivity. This landmark document builds on the foundation laid by the Port Moresby Declaration on Aviation Safety and Security Oversight and sets a bold new agenda for the future of aviation in the Pacific.

Over two days, ministers, industry leaders, and stakeholders from across the region gathered to address the pressing challenges and opportunities facing the aviation sector. The Suva Declaration, unanimously endorsed by all participating ministers, outlines a comprehensive framework to strengthen regional collaboration, enhance safety and security, and promote sustainable and inclusive aviation connectivity across the Pacific.

The declaration focuses on eight key pillars:

1. Strengthening Regional Collaboration
2. Enhancing Safety and Security
3. Promoting Environmentally Sustainable Aviation Connectivity
4. Expanding Inclusive and Accessible Connectivity
5. Building Capacity and Resilience
6. Enhancing International Air Law Framework
7. Advancing Innovation and Digital Transformation
8. Ensuring Financial and Economic Sustainability

These pillars reflect a shared commitment to advancing sustainable aviation and connectivity, ensuring that the Pacific region remains resilient, competitive, and environmentally responsible in the face of global challenges.

Hon. Viliame Gavoka, Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, hailed the declaration as a transformative step forward. “The Suva Declaration represents a unified vision for the future of aviation in the Pacific. By committing to these pillars, we are not only addressing yesterday’s challenges but also laying the groundwork for a safer, more sustainable, and interconnected region,” he said.

The declaration’s emphasis on strengthening regional collaboration underscores the importance of collective action in addressing the unique challenges faced by Pacific Island nations. By working together, countries can pool resources, share expertise, and create a more resilient aviation sector that benefits all.

A key focus of the Suva Declaration is promoting environmentally sustainable aviation connectivity. This includes initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, adopt cleaner fuels, and minimize the environmental impact of air travel. Ms. Salaseini Daunabuna, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, emphasized the urgency of these measures. “Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity. This framework reflects our collective commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of aviation while ensuring the industry remains a driver of economic growth,” she stated.

The declaration also prioritizes enhancing safety and security, with ministers agreeing to adopt unified safety standards and share best practices. These measures aim to address gaps in safety infrastructure and create a more consistent regulatory environment across the region.

As the statutory body responsible for aviation governance, the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) will play a pivotal role in implementing the Suva Declaration. Ms. Theresa Levestam, Chief Executive of CAAF, affirmed this commitment, stating, “As the statutory body responsible for aviation governance, we are dedicated to ensuring the effective implementation of the Suva Declaration. These pillars will guide our efforts to maintain the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and connectivity in the Pacific.”

The declaration also highlights the importance of advancing innovation and digital transformation. By embracing new technologies, the Pacific aims to modernize its aviation sector, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the passenger experience.

In endorsing the Suva Declaration, ministers pledged to work together to advance sustainable aviation and connectivity for the Pacific region. This commitment aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas related to infrastructure, industry, and climate action.

As RAMM3 concluded, the sense of unity and determination among participants was palpable. The Government of Fiji, through the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, expressed its gratitude to all attendees for their contributions to this historic achievement. Plans are already underway to monitor the implementation of the Suva Declaration and ensure its objectives are realized.

The adoption of the Suva Declaration marks a new era for Pacific aviation, one defined by collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for a sustainable and connected future.

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