Fiji aviation fuel shortage expected to resolve by month-end

A supply chain issue has caused a shortage of Jet A-1 aviation fuel at Nadi International Airport in Fiji, impacting several major international airlines. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka clarified that the shortage was caused by unusable fuel received from a supplier rather than fuel contamination.

To manage the limited supply, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued advising airlines to refuel before arriving in Nadi. Major carriers implemented various contingency measures: Qantas utilized larger aircraft to minimize refueling needs, Virgin Australia cancelled several flights and diverted others to Noumea, and Air New Zealand transported its own fuel.

Authorities have prioritized Fiji Airways and medical evacuation services to ensure essential operations remain protected. The shortage is expected to be resolved by the end of the month following the arrival of a new fuel shipment.