Fiji to Modernise Aviation Oversight With 2026 Civil Aviation Bill

Fiji is advancing plans to modernise its civil aviation oversight framework with a new 2026 bill aimed at strengthening regulatory standards, aligning the country with international best practice, and supporting continued growth in the aviation sector.

The proposed legislation — expected to be tabled in parliament later this year — represents a comprehensive overhaul of Fiji’s aviation regulatory architecture. It is designed to enhance the mandate and capabilities of the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF), provide clearer enforcement powers, and ensure the law reflects the latest standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

At the core of the bill is a focus on **improving safety oversight**. Fiji, like many small island economies, has historically faced challenges maintaining up‑to‑date regulatory frameworks that match rapid developments in global aviation. The new legislation aims to equip regulators with modern tools to monitor airline operations, certify operators, inspect infrastructure, and enforce compliance with safety management system requirements.

In addition to safety, the bill seeks to clarify **economic and consumer protection provisions**. This includes stronger controls over airline licensing, clearer definitions of airline obligations to passengers, and explicit mechanisms for dispute resolution. Lawmakers say the reforms will help protect air travellers while also providing regulatory certainty that can attract investment into the aviation sector.

Another priority is **harmonisation with international standards**. ICAO regularly audits member states’ civil aviation oversight through its Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme. The proposed Fiji bill is expected to incorporate many of ICAO’s recommended practices, particularly around risk‑based oversight, data sharing, and the regulation of emerging areas such as unmanned aircraft systems (drones) and remotely piloted operations.

Officials have also emphasised the importance of **industry growth and resilience**. Fiji’s geographic isolation makes air connectivity vital for tourism, trade, and medical transport. By updating its aviation law, government leaders hope to support a regulatory environment that encourages **sustainable growth of airlines, airports, and air services**, while ensuring robust oversight that safeguards safety and security.

Key stakeholders, including airlines, airport operators, and pilot unions, have been engaged in preliminary consultations. These discussions have focused on ensuring the legislation balances regulatory effectiveness with operational efficiency. Airline representatives have welcomed clarity on licensing and oversight procedures but have also called for transition provisions that allow compliance time without disrupting service.

Another element under consideration is **aviation security and border control integration**. In a post‑pandemic world, civil aviation regulators are increasingly tasked with coordinating public health preparedness and security screening standards alongside traditional flight‑safety responsibilities. The bill is expected to outline mechanisms for inter‑agency cooperation, streamlining responses to health emergencies, natural disasters, and security threats.

The government says the legislative update will also modernise penalties and enforcement tools, providing the CAAF with clearer authority to address violations, levy fines, and take corrective actions when necessary. Current aviation law in Fiji dates from an earlier era of aviation and lacks many of the enforcement instruments seen in more recent regulatory frameworks.

Industry analysts see Fiji’s move as part of a broader trend in the Pacific region, where countries — including Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island states — are updating aviation law to remain competitive, compliant, and ready for future technological shifts such as sustainable aviation fuels, advanced air mobility, and digital flight operations.

If passed as currently drafted, the 2026 bill would come into force with phased implementation, allowing regulators and industry participants to transition smoothly while maintaining operational continuity. Training and capacity building for CAAF staff are likely to accompany the rollout to ensure effective application of new oversight powers.

With tourism and business travel continuing to recover across the Pacific, the timing of these reforms underscores Fiji’s commitment to a modern, resilient aviation sector capable of meeting the demands of international traffic growth while ensuring high standards of safety and regulatory performance.