Australia and Fiji have agreed to increase passenger and freight capacity for their designated airlines.

This is a result of a recent successful air services meeting by both governments in Suva.

The Fijian delegation was led by Sharvada Sharma, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary responsible for civil aviation who said: “The discussions were conducted in a very open and friendly manner and due to Fiji being a popular holiday destination for Australians and the increased demand for seats between the two countries, we have agreed to an additional entitlement of 500 seats per week for each country, which will provide for an extra 1000 seats per week in the market.

“Both parties have also agreed to double the freight capacity from 70 to 140 tonnes per week for each country.”

Stephen Borthwick, acting executive director, Aviation and Airports, Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, led the Australian delegation and said: “The discussions built on the close aviation relationship between Fiji and Australia and will provide additional opportunities for airlines to strengthen business and tourism links between our two countries.”

The executive general manager, Corporate Affairs for Fiji Airways, Shaenaz Voss was pleased with the outcome of the negotiations and stated that: “Fiji Airways is committed to expanding its network and growing the number of visitors to Fiji.

“Australia is a vital destination in our network and this is a significant step forward, providing more travel opportunities for Fijians and Australians.”

Both governments have also agreed to update their air services agreement, which was initially signed in 1982, and to hold further discussions on more flexible code sharing arrangements including third party code shares between the two countries.

A report by 9news.com.au states that Australia’s Transport Minister Darren Chester said the “long sought-after” arrangement of about 10 per cent increase in passenger capacity and a doubling of air freight capacity would boost a $4.2 billion tourism and trade relationship.