Fiji Airways, the national carrier of Fiji, is gearing up to elevate its status within the global aviation community by applying for full membership in the prestigious Oneworld alliance. According to Bloomberg News, the airline, with the support of founding Oneworld members American Airlines and Cathay Pacific, is poised to initiate the application process later this year. This strategic move could transform Fiji Airways into the 16th member of the alliance, marking a significant milestone as it potentially becomes the smallest full member in this elite group.
Currently holding the status of a Oneworld connect partner, Fiji Airways has been gradually expanding its footprint in the global aviation market. The airline boasts a diverse fleet, including three A330-200s, one A330-300, four A350-900s, five B737-8s, and one B737-800, enabling it to serve 23 destinations across the Pacific rim. Additionally, its domestic operations are facilitated under the Fiji Link brand, further enhancing its network reach within Fiji.
Fiji Airways’s ambition to join the Oneworld alliance as a full member is not only a testament to its growth aspirations but also reflects its commitment to offering enhanced connectivity and services to its passengers. The airline’s existing codeshare agreements with 13 airlines, including seven Oneworld members (JAL – Japan Airlines, Qantas, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and British Airways), underscore its compatibility with the alliance’s network and operational standards. Furthermore, its partnership with Jetstar Airways extends Fiji Airways’s codeshare network, showcasing its strategic alliances within the aviation sector.
The Fijian government holds the majority ownership of Fiji Airways, with Qantas as the second-largest shareholder, holding a 24% stake. This corporate structure, combined with its strategic alliances and operational capabilities, positions Fiji Airways as a valuable candidate for full Oneworld membership.
The application process for full membership is expected to exceed 12 months from the date of application, indicating that Fiji Airways’s integration into the Oneworld alliance could unfold over an extended period. Achieving full membership status would not only elevate Fiji Airways’s global profile but also enhance its operational synergies with some of the world’s leading airlines, offering passengers an expanded network of destinations, improved loyalty benefits, and a seamless travel experience across the alliance’s global footprint.
