Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has urged other Pacific airlines to send its current and would-be pilots and their airline and regulatory authorities to Fiji to train at the Fiji Airways Aviation Academy.
In his official address, Mr Bainimarama said the Academy was open to any pilots in the region and internationally who sought its services in its modern facility, which he added was as good as any in the industry.
“Anyone, from anywhere in the world, can train here. We can elevate second officers to first officer positions and first officer to captains through a faster process,” Mr Bainimarama said.
“But a faster process is still a rigorous process, and all certifications are carefully carried out at the Academy by our local senior Check and Training Captains, who are highly skilled, highly experienced, CAAF-approved, pilots.”
Mr Bainimarama said all that decreased the need for expat pilots in the Pacific.
“Pacific flights should be flown by Pacific people. These are well-paying jobs that perform a vital service to our region.
“We have the pool of talent. We simply needed the resources to put Fijians and other Pacific Islanders in the captain’s seat.
“And this Academy brings world-class aviation education in Fiji’s own backyard.”
Mr Bainimarama said countless young people dream of being flying Fijians – not only those who saw themselves on the national rugby team but also those who dream of taking to the skies as pilots.
“If you’re a young person in Fiji who wants that for yourself, please know that it need not be a dream. It should be an aspiration because you can learn your profession here.
“New fixed devices just installed at this Academy will allow Fiji Airways to offer training for students right out of the flying school.”
The PM said cabin crew could also be trained under the guidance of qualified Senior Fiji Airways trainers and personnel.
“And Fijian engineers are maintaining the facility and its assets. That means more jobs. More income. And all of it stays in Fiji.”
Mr Bainimarama said Fiji Airways used to spend around $14million a year sending its pilots and cabin crews abroad for this training.
“All of that money is now staying in our people’s pockets. The local economy around Nadi benefits. Fiji benefits. The Pacific benefits as well.”
