Making a Difference: Fiji Airways Donates F$1 Million; Offers Free Carriage of Relief Supplies

Fiji Airways has donated F$1m (roughly US$468,000) to the Prime Minister’s National Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund to assist those affected by Cyclone Winston.

The airline is also offering free carriage of relief supplies domestically and inbound from other countries coordinated through the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO).

Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO, Andre Viljoen handed the cheque over today to Fijian Prime Minister, Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Hon. Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama.

“We share the pain of our fellow Fijians at this time and will assist in any way we can to help rebuild our nation,” said Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO, Andre Viljoen. “The donation will assist the NDMO teams get much needed resources and personnel to areas of critical need. In addition, Fiji Link flights this week will carry as much water and dry goods as possible on all flights going to Labasa, Savusavu, Taveuni, Koro, Vanuabalavu, Cicia, Kadavu, and Lakeba. Fiji Airways, under the direction of the NDMO, will freight in relief supplies on our inbound flights. While we are heartened to see so many Fijians and our friends abroad offering assistance, we encourage everyone wanting to help to please work through the NDMO.”

Fiji’s Attorney General and Minister for Civil Aviation, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, said, “All Fijians will appreciate this generous gesture by Fiji Airways, which reflects not only its commitment to the welfare of our nation but its sound financial management that has made the donation possible. The Government will be working closely with our national airline throughout this crisis, not only making sure that relief supplies get to those who most need it but assisting the tourism industry to get back on its feet.”

The AG said the Government, through Tourism Fiji, is working with Fiji Airways and industry stakeholders on a comprehensive plan to maintain the health of the industry in the wake of Cyclone Winston.

“We need to get the message out to our key markets that most Fijian resorts are open and functioning. The best way for Australians and New Zealanders, in particular, to support Fiji through this crisis is to keep visiting us. There is no need for intending holidaymakers to cancel or postpone their visits,” the AG said.

See other recent news regarding: Making a Difference, Fiji Airways, Fiji