Fiji Airways Becomes Oneworld’s Newest Full Member

Fiji Airways has achieved a significant milestone by becoming a full member of the Oneworld Alliance, marking an important advancement for the South Pacific airline. Previously a Oneworld Connect partner since 2018, the airline has now elevated its status within the renowned alliance.

Founded in 1951, Fiji Airways has steadily expanded its operations, now boasting a fleet of 21 aircraft, including Airbus A350s, Airbus A330s, and Boeing 737s.

Photo: Fiji Airways, Airbus A350-900. Courtesy of Airbus

The announcement of Fiji Airways’ full membership takes place at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Dubai, UAE, where most of the airline’s chief executives come together to discuss the current state of the commercial aviation industry.

At the press conference, Robert Isom, Chairman of Oneworld Alliance and CEO of American Airlines, highlighted the successful relationship between Oneworld and Fiji Airways over the past five years. He expressed optimism about the future, anticipating continued growth and enhanced services.

Nat Pieper, the recently appointed CEO of Oneworld, extended a heartfelt welcome, saying: “It’s a very warm bula, or hello, to Fiji Airways as we welcome them as our 15th full member airline in the Oneworld alliance. Fiji Airways is already part of the Oneworld family, as we have had a highly successful relationship since the airline joined as a Oneworld Connect partner five years ago.”

Pieper added, “With its tremendous growth, award-winning products and services, and acceleration of connections with all Oneworld member airlines, Fiji Airways will strengthen our position as the premier airline alliance for international global travelers.”

Photo: Fiji Airways Flight Attendant at the IATA AGM. Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

Andre Viljoen, managing director of Fiji Airways, said, “I am extremely proud to announce our full membership in the award-winning Oneworld alliance, marking a significant step in our commitment to providing unparalleled service and connectivity.”

“As a full member airline, we are excited to enhance the travel experience for Oneworld alliance frequent flyers, offering greater accessibility to Fiji and the South Pacific, and ensuring seamless connections and memorable journeys for Fiji Airways customers across the alliance network,” he said.

Benefits for Passengers

The inclusion of Fiji Airways as a full Oneworld member is set to enhance travel options, particularly in the Pacific region. Passengers on both sides of the ocean will benefit from seamless connections across Oneworld’s extensive network.

This development is expected to add value for travelers across the Asia Pacific countries — including those flying with Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and Qantas. American Airlines and Alaska Airlines will also reap the benefits by connecting passengers to Fiji via its West Coast gateways.

Photo: Cathay Pacific 777-300 Oneworld Livery. Courtesy of Boeing

As a full member, Fiji Airways will offer Oneworld Emerald, Sapphire, and Ruby customers a comprehensive suite of benefits. These include earning and redeeming miles, earning status points, priority check-in and boarding, and lounge access.

Likewise, Fiji Airways’ top-tier customers will gain access to nearly 700 business and first class lounges globally, including newly opened Oneworld branded lounges in Amsterdam’s Schiphol and Seoul’s Incheon Airports.

Oneworld’s network spans over 900 destinations in 170 territories, offering passengers access to hundreds of lounges globally and providing unique privileges and rewards for frequent fliers. Benefits include fast-track security, extra baggage allowances, and point-building opportunities for passengers flying on partner airlines.

Oneworld Celebrates 25th Anniversary

As Oneworld celebrates its 25th anniversary, the new CEO, Nat Pieper, said he is fully dedicated to enhancing every aspect of the guest travel experience. This includes an exciting premium lounge strategy, a comprehensive oneworld upgrade program, and the implementation of more personalized digital capabilities.

“I’ve been in office for sixty days and I’ve visited 11 of our members since my appointment,” said Pieper to Business Traveler. “I plan to continue immersing myself and coming up with a roadmap that will help Oneworld offer our passengers the most seamless and comfortable travel experience.”

Photo: Amsterdam Schiphol Lounge. Courtesy of oneworld

“Our top priority is to consistently provide an exceptional travel experience, ensuring a best-in-class journey at every stage,” he added. “The success of oneworld over the past 25 years is a result of the strong relationships between our member airlines and their unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. It’s a great honor for me to lead the world’s leading airline alliance, and I am eager to strengthen our already fantastic partnerships even further.”

When asked about potential collaborations with rail providers, Pieper stated that Iberia is already working closely with Spain’s Renfe. If more operators within Oneworld’s destination network are willing to work with them, the alliance will certainly consider it.