Pacific Blue sets its sights on flights from Australia to Fiji

Pacific Blue* has today confirmed its intention to begin flights between Australia and Fiji (Nadi) from September this year subject to regulatory approvals in both countries.

From its home base of New Zealand the "sister airline" to Virgin Blue, launched flights between Christchurch and Brisbane late last month and will be initiating further services between Christchurch and Sydney and Melbourne as well as Wellington - Sydney services in March.

Pacific Blue will team up with Virgin Blue in a joint effort to launch affordable air services into the Pacific region, with Fiji chosen as the carrier's first destination.

The airlines will now commence the approval process to gain the relevant permissions from both the Australian and Fijian authorities.

David Huttner, Head of Strategy and Communications for Virgin Blue/Pacific Blue, made the announcement from Fiji today after meetings with key government officials to discuss Pacific Blue's flight plan.

The carrier hopes to fly between Australia and Fiji initially six times a week ramping up to daily services in 2005 as demand increases.

Pacific Blue will also focus heavily on offering Australian domestic connecting flight options on Virgin Blue from cities beyond the East Coast gateways including Adelaide, Canberra, Townsville, Cairns, Perth and Newcastle.

David Huttner said, "Fiji is clearly one of the most beautiful and popular places in this part of the world but there are still so many people who thought it was out of their reach. Pacific Blue hopes to change that just as Virgin Blue has for domestic tourism throughout Australia."

He continued, "With affordable pricing, we will also make Fiji accessible to independent and more adventurous travellers who will move beyond the big resorts and fan out throughout the Fijian Islands. Whether for an incredible dive experience along the Ribbon Reefs or a chance to visit a local village to experience true Fijian culture and hospitality, we are confident that there are so many people who will take this opportunity to visit one of the friendliest places on this planet."

Final schedule, fares and the Australian arrival and departure ports are expected to be announced in the coming months once appropriate approvals have been received. 

* Virgin Blue Airlines Pty Ltd trading as Pacific Blue.