Fiji Airways Eyes Dallas Flights

Fiji Airways is eyeing one of its most important expansions to grow its presence in the United States.

The Fiji-based carrier is looking to launch its longest route by filing plans for nonstop service between Nadi International Airport (NAN) and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).

The application was filed with the US Department of Transportation, which is an essential part of any airline’s ambition to launch new services.

If approved, Fiji Airways would operate its Airbus A350 between Nadi and Dallas, with thrice-weekly flights initially jetting off on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

The airline uses the Airbus A350 as it looks to dramatically improve efficiency across its fleet and commit to more next-gen aircraft. Data indicates the airline has 4 A350-900s, averaging 5.2 years.

In the future, the expectation is that this number will grow as further A350s are expected to arrive and will replace its existing fleet of Airbus A330s. These A330s average 10.5 years of age, but the efficiency benefits of the A350 and range capabilities are more than present and will improve connectivity from the Pacific nation.

The company already serves several locations in the United States, such as Honolulu, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, and Dallas would become its fourth city in the U.S.

However, the meaning behind the airline’s prospective launch to Dallas is far greater than just its continued network expansion. The potential service launch aligns with Fiji’s plan to become a full oneworld alliance member in 2025.

Dallas Fort Worth, is home to American Airlines, a fellow oneworld member airline. The prospect of serving this airport opens up many opportunities for travellers for onward connectivity.

In addition to the benefits associated with its oneworld membership, Fiji Airways hopes to increase tourism to Fiji and the South Pacific region.

In recent years, the airline has been able to capitalise on offering an attractive price point for travel across the South Pacific instead of the nonstop services offered by full-service North American and Oceania carriers.