The Fijian Government, through the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is working closely with Fiji Airports and Fiji Airways to strengthen aviation safety and minimize the risks posed by bird strikes across the country’s airports.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka told Parliament that both organizations are implementing coordinated wildlife hazard management programs aligned with international aviation safety standards.
Fiji Airports has rolled out a comprehensive Wildlife Management Plan incorporating global best practices and established an Airport Wildlife Committee to oversee monitoring and mitigation at Nadi, Nausori, and other domestic airports. Trained personnel—including Wildlife Coordinators, Airside Safety Officers, and Airport Environment Officers—are involved in day-to-day hazard management operations.
Among its key initiatives, Fiji Airports is collaborating with local authorities to map and control bird attractants within a 5-kilometer radius of airports, launch environmental awareness campaigns, and advocate for stronger land-use regulations near airport areas to minimize bird activity around flight paths.
Supporting these efforts, Fiji Airways continues to bolster safety through real-time sharing of bird strike data, DNA analysis of bird remains to identify high-risk species, and pilot training programs focused on improving response and situational awareness.
“These proactive measures reflect the Government’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety, environmental stewardship, and inter-agency cooperation,” said DPM Gavoka.
The Fijian Government commended both Fiji Airports and Fiji Airways for their continued dedication to ensuring safe skies for all travelers.
