Fiji Moves to Overhaul Aviation Safety Laws by 2026
Fiji has taken a major step toward strengthening its aviation safety regime with the introduction of the draft Civil Aviation Bill 2026, a comprehensive legislative reform designed to modernise oversight, clarify regulatory authority, and align the country more closely with international aviation standards.
The proposed legislation follows a 2019 audit by the International Civil Aviation Organization, which highlighted shortcomings in Fiji’s aviation legal framework. The audit identified gaps in statutory mandates, limited enforcement powers, and weaknesses in accident and incident investigation processes. These findings prompted a multi-year review aimed at addressing structural and governance issues within the country’s aviation system.
At the core of the reform is the consolidation of three existing laws into a single, streamlined statute. The Civil Aviation Act 1976, the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji Act 1979, and the Civil Aviation Reform Act 1999 will be repealed and replaced by a unified legal framework with a clear and exclusive focus on aviation safety oversight. By eliminating overlapping provisions and outdated regulatory language, the government aims to create a more coherent and enforceable system.
One of the most significant changes under the bill is the creation of an independent Accident Investigation Commission. This body will be legally and operationally separate from aviation regulators and service providers, a move intended to ensure impartial investigations and improve transparency following accidents or serious incidents. The commission will be empowered to conduct investigations in line with international best practices and issue safety recommendations without political or commercial influence.
The bill also seeks to strengthen regulatory oversight by clarifying the roles and responsibilities of aviation authorities, enhancing compliance and enforcement mechanisms, and providing updated legal tools to address emerging safety risks. These measures are expected to support Fiji’s growing aviation sector, which plays a critical role in tourism, trade, and regional connectivity across the Pacific.
Aviation security will continue to be governed separately under the Civil Aviation Security Act 1999, ensuring that security oversight remains distinct from safety regulation while allowing both frameworks to operate in parallel.
Public consultations on the draft legislation were held in late 2025, with input gathered from aviation stakeholders, industry operators, and government agencies. The Civil Aviation Bill 2026 is expected to be tabled for further parliamentary consideration as Fiji works to modernise its aviation governance and reinforce confidence in the safety of its air transport system.
Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com