Fiji has reinforced its growing influence in the global aviation arena with its participation in the Changi Aviation Summit, currently underway in Singapore from 1–3 February. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, is representing Fiji at the high-level gathering following an invitation from Singapore’s Minister for Transport. The Summit is organised by Singapore’s Ministry of Transport.
The Changi Aviation Summit has drawn more than 400 participants, including aviation ministers, directors-general, chief executives and senior industry leaders from around the world. Pacific Island countries are strongly represented, reflecting the region’s increasing engagement in global aviation dialogue and policy development.
On the sidelines of the Summit, Gavoka held discussions with aviation ministers from Pacific Small Island States as well as the President of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, Mr. Toshiyuki Onuma. Talks focused on strengthening regional air connectivity, preparations for the 4th Regional Aviation Ministers Meeting, and shared challenges facing Pacific aviation, particularly in the areas of resilience, sustainability and capacity building.
Hon. Gavoka also participated in a ministerial-level panel discussion titled “Creating Growth in a Disruptive World: Opportunities, Challenges, and Collaboration,” alongside international aviation leaders. During the session, he outlined Fiji’s strategic vision for aviation as a critical economic lifeline, underpinning tourism, trade and regional integration. He emphasised the need to maintain reliable regional access while building operational resilience in the face of global disruptions.
A key focus of Gavoka’s intervention was environmental sustainability. He highlighted the importance of sustained technical and financial assistance to support the development and adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) across the Pacific. He noted that SAF presents a crucial opportunity for Small Island Developing States to address climate change impacts while safeguarding the long-term viability and affordability of air services.
Fiji’s engagement at the Changi Aviation Summit underscores its commitment to collaborative solutions and leadership in advancing a resilient, connected and sustainable aviation sector for the Pacific region and beyond.
