Starting Nov. 25, Fiji Airways will fly direct from Nadi to Vancouver twice a week on Mondays and Fridays. The destination will be the 20th direct international service provided by Fiji’s national carrier.

Fiji Airways CEO Andre Viljoen says the airline is able to introduce a new market because of the company’s strong rebound since the country’s borders opened on Dec. 1, 2021.

“This is a very exciting development as we continue to explore ways to maximize returns, not just for Fiji Airways, but for the tourism industry and the Fijian economy,” he says, adding, “Canada represents a new market with immense potential for tourism, trade and of course re-connecting Fijian families.

“The Fijian diaspora in Canada is approximately 80,000 – people who have not been able to see their loved ones for two years and are eager to fly home. Fiji Airways now provides them with a more convenient means to do just that.”

Viljoen says the launch of the new route is strategically timed to offer Canadians an escape from winter to “a beautiful Fijian paradise, promising warm tropical weather.

He also touts the airline as offering world-class hospitality, excellent in-flight service, and a comfortable modern aircraft fleet.”

The route expansion to YVR is part of Air Fiji’s long-term strategy to ensure a “robust business model that ensures that Fiji Airways is able to meet future challenges and continue to bring in revenue,” Viljoen says.

“Returning to the skies doesn’t just mean resuming existing routes. If we are to strengthen ourselves and grow as a business, we must invest in new markets and solidify our networks. Vancouver was the ideal choice for us.”