Fiji Airways Joins Oneworld as 15th Full Member
Fiji Airways is set to transition from a connecting partner to a full member of the Oneworld Alliance, becoming its 15th member airline. This significant change is expected to be finalized by mid-2025, marking a milestone in Fiji Airways' strategic goals.
The airline initially joined the Oneworld Connect programme in 2018, serving as its first member. According to Oneworld chief executive Nat Pieper, Fiji Airways' inclusion as a full member will bolster the alliance's status as the leading airline group for international travelers.
At the IATA AGM in Dubai, Fiji Airways CEO Andre Viljoen expressed enthusiasm about this development. He noted that while Fiji Airways has been a part of Oneworld Connect since 2018, full membership has always been their ultimate aim.
This transition coincides with Oneworld's 25th anniversary and its preparation to welcome Oman Air as the latest member this year. Oman Air will join Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian Airlines as the third Middle Eastern carrier in the alliance.
Oneworld has been expanding its network, with Alaska Airlines joining in 2021 and Royal Air Maroc becoming the first African member in 2020. Nat Pieper emphasized the alliance's commitment to quality over quantity when adding new members, focusing on enhancing the network's overall service standards.
Pieper mentioned that Oneworld aims to fill gaps in its network either by attracting new members or by encouraging existing members to increase their flight offerings. The alliance prioritizes maintaining high standards in service and product quality for any new additions.