Fiji Airways has achieved a historic milestone after being named an APEX World Class Airline for 2026, becoming the first airline in Oceania – and the smallest by fleet size – to earn a place among the Top 10 Airlines in the World.
The honour, awarded by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), recognises airlines that excel in safety, sustainability, service, well-being and overall customer experience.
Fiji Airways also won the APEX Innovation Award for Best Inflight Food and Beverage 2026, following the introduction of its Pacific Rim–inspired menu, on-demand dining in Business Class and refreshed Economy offerings.
Managing Director and CEO Andre Viljoen said the award was the result of one of the airline’s most extensive transformation efforts. “In 2016, we were ranked outside the world’s Top 100 airlines,” Viljoen said.
“Today, through grit, innovation and the spirit of our people, we have risen to be named one of the Top 10. In a world of Goliaths, we are David – and we are winning.”
The recognition followed months of preparation, including new supply chains for locally sourced produce, upgraded equipment, redesigned service flows, and intensive crew training. Sixteen of Fiji Airways’ top cabin crew became World Class Trainers to lead the rollout across the airline.
Founded in 1951, Fiji Airways now employs over 2,000 staff and carries 70 per cent of all visitors to Fiji. With this recognition, the national carrier has cemented its place among the world’s aviation leaders while showcasing Fiji’s renowned hospitality on the global stage.
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