Fiji Airways is in the final inspection stages of cabin interiors for the new Boeing 737 MAX 8.

A statement from Fiji Airways said: “The first of five Boeing 737 MAX 8s is due to arrive in November, with all five of the type on order expected to be delivered by the end of 2019.

“The first commercial flight destination for the MAX 8 is Adelaide, Australia which will take place in December.

“As with all new aircraft types, crew will undergo familiarisation training before entering it into service.”

The new aircraft will be more fuel efficient, have modern cabin interiors and amenities including seatback inflight entertainment and leather seats, larger overhead luggage storage and reduced cabin noise.

Fiji Airways’ will be the first airline in the region to receive delivery of the more than 4,500 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft on order around the world.

Wellington Airport passengers will be one of the first in New Zealand to experience Fiji Airways’ new Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft when it launches on the Wellington to Nadi service from December 2018.

In an earlier statement Andre Viljoen, Fiji Airways managing director and chief executive officer said: “We’re excited to announce Wellington as the first airport in New Zealand to receive our brand new B737 MAX 8 aircraft after it arrives factory-fresh.

“Fiji Airways will combine the state-of-the-art features of the MAX 8 with our world renowned Fijian hospitality on board, giving guests from the New Zealand Capital more than just a comfortable flight to Fiji.”

Feedback:  maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj