Aviation Bill must keep pace with industry innovations, says Fiji Airports boss

Drafting new legislation requires input from the latest developments in the aviation sector.

Fiji Airports chief executive officer Mesake Nawari made these comments during the Aviation Bill consultation at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel in Nadi yesterday.

He said there is a need for proactive thinking about issues that were never considered in the past, taking into account the current era where technology plays a significant role in sustainability.

This includes Fiji Airways’ recent announcement that they will be using VTOLs and e-VTOLs.

“Whether we have taken this on board—when drafting the legislation, we need to consider new developments in the aviation sector,” said Mr Nawari.

“What I’m thinking about right now is unmanned, autonomous aircraft that are being used. What about waste disposal? Are we thinking about licensing related to environmental sustainability?”

Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji manager Legal Enforcement/Board secretary Florence Takinana said forward thinking and inclusion of systems with e-VTOLs are part of the bill.

"In terms of sustainability, we will take that on board. That is a key consideration and is referenced in the simulation master plan, but I don’t think it has been adequately captured under this bill,” she said.

“We also received interesting feedback during our consultation yesterday, including a proposal to consider the inclusion of traditional heritage in our area,” Ms Takinana added.