Dhaka: Fiji Airways, the national carrier of Fiji and member of the oneworld® alliance, has achieved a historic milestone by being named a Top 10 Airline in the World and winning the APEX World Class Airline for 2026 Award—the most prestigious accolade in global aviation.

The airline also received the APEX Innovation Award for Best Inflight Food & Beverage 2026, following the launch of its Pacific Rim-inspired menu, on-demand Business Class dining, and refreshed Economy service.

Fiji Airways is the smallest airline by fleet size to receive this honour and the only carrier in Oceania to be recognised. The award combines independent audits and global passenger feedback to assess excellence across safety, sustainability, well-being, service, and customer experience.

Managing Director and CEO Andre Viljoen called the achievement a “proud and historic moment for Fiji and the airline,” noting the transformation since 2016, when Fiji Airways was ranked outside the Top 100.

“We are the David in a world of Goliaths—and we are winning,” said Viljoen.
“This award proves that a small airline from a small island nation can soar with the best.”

Achieving World Class status involved a complete overhaul of Fiji Airways’ inflight experience: new premium products, redesigned service flow, locally sourced ingredients, and intensive cabin crew training. Sixteen top crew members became World Class Trainers after a 10-week program.

“To excel, we cannot be ordinary,” added Viljoen. “We had to be unmistakably remarkable.”

Fiji Airways says the recognition cements its global standing in hospitality and excellence, while also shining a spotlight on Fiji as a world-class travel destination.

-B