Fiji Airways Group orders three new generation Twin Otter aircraft

Fiji Airways announced (24-Aug-2017) plans to expand and upgrade the Fiji Link Twin Otter fleet, to allow increased frequencies on key domestic routes. The airline will purchase three new DHC-6 Series 400 Twin Otters from Viking Air, to replace two of its existing three Series 300 aircraft. Fiji Link also has the option to purchase a fourth new Series 400 Twin Otter aircraft, with a decision on exercising this option tol be made in 2018. This will increase the Twin Otter fleet to four aircraft. The new aircraft will arrive between Oct-2017 and early 2018. The aircraft have digital avionics systems and operating features will also enhance operational reliability and make for an easier transition for Fiji Link pilots to progress onto the carrier's ATR fleet. Fiji Airways Group MD and CEO Andre Viljoen said the fleet investment is "in line with the overall modernisation of the entire Group fleet". The aircraft will raise capacity to Savusavu and Taveun by 30% and Nadi-Suva frequency will increase to seven a day, according to Mr Viljoen. The carrier has also initiated the recruitment and training of additional local pilots for the impending fleet expansion. [more - original PR]