Late Fiji Airports chief executive Faiz Khan laid to rest
Asombre ambiance filled Nadi International Airport yesterday as the body of Fiji Airports late chief executive officer Faiz Khan was brought home to be laid to rest.
His body arrived at Nadi a little after midday.
Minister for Forestry, Osea Naiqamu, tourism stalwart Rosie Travel Group managing director, Tony Whitton, executives and staff members of Fiji Pine Groups and Fiji Airports were among dignitaries who waited for Mr Khan’s cortege.
Mr Khan was 43 years old.
Inspiring leadership
Fiji Airports Board member, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, said Mr Khan’s leadership was significant because he inspired and empowered other leaders.
“His type of leadership made people think outside of the box,” Ratu Wiliame said.
Fulfilling landowners wishes
“A lot of great ideas especially from the landowners had come into fulfillment under his leadership.
“At Fiji Airports, he empowered senior management to know their various roles and responsibilities.
“He has left behind a life and a legacy that we will continue to carry on,” he said.
Ratu Wiliame said he had known Mr Khan since 2012.
“He was different because his personality affected the people serving under his leadership,” Ratu Wiliame said. “He was truly humble, down to earth. “The Fiji Pine Group and staff of Tropic Wood socialised well with him.
Strong attachment
“After work, he mingled with the boys working at the saw mill.
“The strong attachment he had with his staff boosted their work performance.”
“A significant transformation he had invested in the Pine Group and the Fiji
Airports had created a big motivation for the staff on how they viewed their work,” he added.
Mr Khan passed away in Brisbane, Australia, after a short illness.
He was admitted at the Lautoka hospital last week before he was airlifted to Brisbane on Thursday afternoon.
He is survived by his wife and their two sons.
He was buried at the Drasa Muslim Cemetery in Lautoka yesterday evening.