Fiji’s national carrier Air Pacific will be renamed Fiji Airways from June 2013.
The rebranding marks a return to the airline’s original name, which it used from 1958 to 1970, and forms part of a major turnaround strategy of the airline aimed at reversing a series of losses.
“Globally there is high consumer awareness of Fiji as a holiday destination. We want to strengthen that association and also promote Fiji in every country we fly to. Returning to Fiji Airways will better reflect our role as Fiji’s national carrier, and also assist Fiji by growing tourism and interest in the nation,” said David Pflieger, Air Pacific’s Managing Director & CEO.
“Our airline is one of Fiji’s largest companies employing 800 people directly and an estimated 8,000 or so indirectly, and we fly in over 60% of all visitors who come to Fiji, so it only makes sense for us to embrace our uniquely Fijian culture and spirit.
“Our rebranding is part of an overall turnaround plan – a plan that is working well and should, with continued focus and effort, help us thrive and grow as the preferred airline of the South Pacific,” he added.
The rebranding marks another step in the airline’s turnaround plan, which has already seen increased flights between Fiji and Sydney, an order for three new Airbus A330-200 aircraft, and work on modernising the airline’s product and services.
The new A330-200s, which are due to be delivered in 2013, will feature the airline’s new livery and logo, with all other branding being gradually changed over the next 18 months.
