Fiji Airways has officially touched down in Cairns for the first time, launching a direct, year-round service between Nadi and Tropical North Queensland. This milestone route, which commenced on 10 April 2025, offers the region its first non-stop connection to Fiji and unlocks faster one-stop travel to North America.
The new service operates three times weekly aboard the fuel-efficient Boeing 737 MAX 8, with a flight time of just over four hours. The inaugural flight, FJ971, arrived shortly before 11:30 on Thursday, greeted by traditional Fijian dancers at Cairns Airport’s international terminal.
Boost for North Queensland and beyond
Fiji Airways’ CEO and Managing Director, Andre Viljoen, said the new route enhances access to the airline’s 333-island archipelago while significantly improving international connectivity.
“This new route is a major milestone for Tropical North Queensland travellers and Australians eyeing a Fijian escape,” said Viljoen. “We’re thrilled to provide faster one-stop connections to North America, saving travellers up to three hours by bypassing additional Australian ports.”
The flight schedule aligns seamlessly with Fiji Airways’ services to Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver – opening up one-stop access from Cairns to North America, with added benefits for frequent flyers through oneworld alliance perks and the AAdvantage® program.
Economic uplift for Cairns
Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker welcomed the new service, highlighting its potential to attract international visitors and support the local economy.
“This exciting connection provides locals with a new holiday option, supports tourism operators, strengthens trade ties, and opens up fresh education opportunities,” said Barker.
“It’s a game changer for our region.”
The direct Nadi–Cairns service is expected to inject 53,000 seats into the market annually and deliver an estimated $62 million boost to the Cairns economy over the next three years.
North America in focus
Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) CEO Mark Olsen said the new route complements their strategic investment in the North American market.
“With the US now our second largest market, the shorter flying time via Fiji offers a real opportunity to grow our share,” said Olsen.
“Every market share point we gain is worth an additional $20 million to our economy.”
TTNQ has already seen strong results from its marketing efforts, including 12 North American campaigns delivering $21 million in direct bookings from more than 30,000 passengers.
Launch fares on sale now
To celebrate the launch, Fiji Airways is offering discounted return fares until Monday 14 April, including:
- Cairns to Nadi from AUD539 (Lite return)
- Cairns to Los Angeles or San Francisco via Nadi from AUD999 (Value return)
- Cairns to Dallas-Fort Worth or Vancouver via Nadi from AUD1,099 (Value return)
All economy fares include meals, beverages, inflight entertainment and 7kg carry-on luggage. Value fares also include 30kg of checked baggage.
