Small island carrier, world-class win: Fiji Airways lands APEX World Class Airline 2026 award

Fiji Airways has made history after being named an APEX World Class Airline for 2026, the most prestigious recognition in global aviation, placing it among the Top 10 airlines in the world.

It is the smallest airline by fleet size ever to earn this honour, and the only airline in Oceania to be recognised.

The award, regarded as the pinnacle of airline achievement, is judged through a rigorous process that combines independent audits with global passenger feedback, measuring excellence across safety, sustainability, well-being, service, and customer experience.

Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO Andre Viljoen described the achievement as “a proud and historic moment for the airline and for Fiji.”

“In 2016, we were ranked outside the world’s Top 100 airlines. Today, through sheer grit, relentless innovation, and the unbreakable spirit of our people, we have risen to be named one of the Top 10 Airlines in the World,” he said.
“This recognition is not just an award, it’s about showing every Fijian, and every member of our team, that we can achieve the impossible. We are the David in a world of Goliaths – and we are winning.”

The recognition follows one of the airline’s most extensive transformation efforts in its history. This included a complete overhaul of the inflight experience, new premium onboard products, fresh supply chains for locally sourced produce, Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine, and months of intensive crew training.

Sixteen of Fiji Airways’ top cabin crew were chosen to undergo a 10-week program, becoming World Class Trainers before leading training across the airline.

Mr Viljoen said the award reflected the airline’s determination to stand out on the global stage.
“Every guest we welcome, we fight for. Every route we grow, we defend,” he said.
“To excel, we cannot afford to be ordinary. We need to stand out, to be unmistakably remarkable, and to create an experience so extraordinary that travellers choose Fiji Airways not just for where we fly, but for how we make them feel.”

The CEO added that the achievement was the result of teamwork across staff, suppliers, and partners in Fiji and abroad.
“That is why we embarked on the World Class journey. It required us to lift every part of our airline to a standard that only the world’s best achieve. It gives us a powerful point of difference that no amount of advertising and marketing can buy,” he said.

As Fiji Airways joins the elite ranks of the world’s best airlines, Mr Viljoen said the focus would remain on innovation and exceeding customer expectations.
“Today, we celebrate together with our staff, loyal guests, stakeholders, and the nation of Fiji. Vinaka vakalevu. The world is watching, and we are soaring.”

The milestone cements Fiji Airways’ place among the world’s top leaders in hospitality and excellence, shining a global spotlight on Fiji as a premier travel destination.