Improved air connectivity is set to play a reinforcing role in Fiji’s economic outlook for 2026, with Fiji Airways continuing to expand its Australian network as part of a broader strategy to strengthen tourism, trade and business engagement.
The national carrier has confirmed that direct Gold Coast–Nadi services will commence from mid-2026, adding more than 53,000 seats annually and strengthening links with one of Australia’s fastest-growing population corridors in south-east Queensland. While leisure travel is expected to benefit most immediately, business groups say improved access also supports professional services, conference travel, investment engagement and supply-chain connectivity.
The Gold Coast announcement builds on a series of Australian route expansions over the past two years. In late 2024 and through 2025, Fiji Airways progressively restored and increased frequencies to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, responding to sustained demand from both leisure and corporate travellers. The airline also maintained direct services to Perth, which continues to serve as an important gateway for Western Australia–Pacific commercial and resource-sector links.
More recently, Fiji Airways launched direct Cairns–Nadi flights, opening a new gateway between northern Australia and the Pacific. The Cairns service is expected to appeal to both tourism operators and businesses in Far North Queensland with interests in agriculture, education, logistics and Pacific engagement. It also provides a more direct route for regional travellers, reducing reliance on major east-coast hubs.
In addition, the airline introduced direct Adelaide–Nadi services, expanding access from South Australia and diversifying Australia’s entry points into Fiji. Together, these routes reflect a deliberate effort to broaden market reach rather than concentrate capacity solely in Australia’s largest cities.
The return of wide-body aircraft on key Australian routes has also increased belly-hold cargo capacity, supporting exporters of time-sensitive and high-value goods. For business travellers, improved frequency and non-stop options reduce travel time and costs, reinforcing Fiji’s position as a regional hub for aviation and services.
From a financial perspective, expanded air connectivity underpins foreign exchange earnings and supports downstream sectors including accommodation, transport, retail and professional services. As airlines globally remain cautious about capacity growth, Fiji Airways’ continued investment in Australia signals confidence in sustained demand and positions connectivity as a key enabler of broader economic activity in 2026.
