Fiji Airways has launched a new sustainability framework called Maroroya – a Fijian word meaning “to protect”.
“For us, Maroroya is more than just a concept; it’s a promise. A promise to safeguard Fiji’s pristine environment, its vibrant culture, and its people,” Fiji Airways chief legal and sustainability officer Peter Seares told Travel Weekly. “It’s a principle we strive to reflect in everything we do.”
As a member of the oneworld alliance, Fiji Airways shares a commitment to sustainability with fellow member airlines. They are working towards the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s long-term goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“Alongside this shared ambition we have set our own bold vision,” Seares said. “To become a role model for environmentally and socially responsible aviation among small island developing states and to be recognised globally as a leader in sustainable air travel.”
To mark the launch of Maroroya, the airline has introduced a new online platform. Travellers can learn about the steps Fiji Airways is taking, and the progress they’ve already made, on their sustainability journey. They have implemented a wide range of initiatives to turn their commitments into real, measurable impact. And they are already delivering results.
“We are acutely aware of the environmental responsibility that comes with connecting Fiji to the rest of the world,” Seares told us. “We’re surrounded by some of the most breathtaking natural beauty on Earth, and we know that with that comes a deep responsibility to protect it.
“Aviation plays a vital role in our economy and our way of life. It connects families, supports tourism, opens up trade, and creates opportunities. But we also know that flying aeroplanes generates carbon emissions, and we can’t ignore that. It’s about finding the right balance.”
Maroroya initiatives
Seares told us it’s not just about ticking boxes. “It’s about doing what’s right for the place we call home, and for the generations of Fijians who will come after us.
“Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but through our Maroroya vision we’re focused on making steady, meaningful change, flight by flight, initiative by initiative,” he said.
- SAF – Fiji Airways has started operating some flights using small amounts of blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
“One of our newest Airbus A350-900 XWB aircraft completed the final leg of its delivery flight from Singapore to Fiji using a 40 per cent SAF blend, which was a major milestone for us,” Seares said.
The airline is also looking at how they can help shape the future of SAF in the South Pacific region. They are exploring the feasibility of producing SAF in Fiji using sugarcane biomass sourced from the domestic sugarcane industry.
- Reducing waste – Onboard, the airline is phasing out single-use plastic items and replacing them with sustainable alternatives, including FSC-certified wooden cutlery, paper cups, and biodegradable packaging.
In 2024 they processed 47,000 kilograms of waste from their hangar and inflight warehouse. In partnership with Mission Pacific they have also successfully recycled over 73,000 plastic bottles. In 2024 they reached a 38 per cent recycling rate.
“Our team is always looking for innovative ways to repurpose waste,” Seares told us. “A local partner has helped us transform 360 litres of used cooking oil into cleaning products.
“7,400 litres of mechanical waste oil have been reused as industrial fuel since 2021 through a partnership with a local mining company.”
Fiji Airways also gives new life to onboard items. They donate blankets, cushion covers, towels, and table linens to schools, shelters, vulnerable community facilities, and animal care groups. So far, they’ve donated over 6,000 blankets, 11,000 cushion covers, 6,000 towels, and more than 25,000 linen items.
- Reducing emissions in the air – The airline has invested in next-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A350-900 XWB and Boeing 737 MAX-8, which offer up to 25 per cent fuel savings compared to previous models.
Additionally, Seares told us about the SkyBreathe Eco-Flying Platform they have adopted. “[It is] a cutting-edge fuel efficiency software solution that leverages data to help us reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. It also provides pilots with real-time insights and recommendations to improve their fuel efficiency during flights.”
From 2019 to 2023, the system helped Fiji Airways avoid over 18.4 million kg of CO₂ emissions. It saved over 5.8 million kg of fuel through more efficient flight paths, reduced taxi time, and optimised contingency fuel.
“In 2024, by minimising the amount of water we carry onboard our aircraft, we saved 451,015 kg of fuel, 34,670 kg of water, and 1.4 million kg of CO₂.”
- Reducing emissions on the ground– Fiji Airways is systematically replacing diesel-powered equipment with electric alternatives. This is resulting in estimated annual savings of 1,000,000 kg of fuel and 3,160,000 kg of CO₂.
- Mangroves – According to WWF, mangroves store up to 10 times more carbon per acre than tropical forests. Fiji Airways plants one mangrove seedling for every international flight. Since 2017 they have planted over 89,000 mangroves across five sites in partnership with the Ministry of Forestry.
Outgoing MD & CEO
At the end of May, Fiji Airways announced that managing director and chief executive officer Andre Viljoen would be stepping down from his role effective October 2025. Viljoen has accepted the position of CEO at Air Mauritius after a decade of leadership in Fiji.
Seares told us that sustainability was elevated to a core strategic priority for Fiji Airways under Viljoen’s leadership.
“He oversaw the establishment of a dedicated sustainability function, appointing the airline’s first chief sustainability officer to lead this important work, supported by a cross-functional sustainability working group, and with governance oversight from the Board Risk Committee,” Seares said.
“This structure has helped embed sustainability across the organisation, making it a shared responsibility and integrating it into how we plan, make decisions, and operate. It has also ensured that climate-related risks and opportunities are actively considered as part of our broader risk management framework.”
As Viljoen prepares to step down in October, Seares believes he leaves behind a strong and lasting legacy. “The foundation he has built will continue to guide us as we continue on our journey of sustainable transformation.
“We’re constantly looking ahead, challenging ourselves to do better for our planet and our people, and staying open to new ideas and innovation. This is the Maroroya mindset.”
