Update: 2:10PM THE second Airbus expected to be delivered in May will be called Namuka-i-Lau in recognition of Fiji Airways logo designer Makareta Matemosi.
President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau announced this, saying the purchase of the brand new Airbus by Air Pacific was a sign that the airline was back on the road to recovery.
Lauding the contribution made by outgoing Air Pacific chief executive officer and managing director David Pflieger to the airline, Ratu Epeli described his 10-hour flight from Hong Kong on board the new aircraft as a special experience.
He gave it the thumbs up and said in terms of flying, Air Pacific could now compete with other international carriers.
"The new planes will give Fiji a chance to expand services to new and emerging markets," he said.
"The new wide-body aircraft will also give opportunities to exporters."