Qantas impact

RESPECTFULLY, I beg to differ with Reapi Nayacakalou (FT 18/19) in reference to Qantas operating flights to/from Nadi.

As far as Australia-Fiji flights are concerned, before Qantas’ re-entry, I believe Nadi International Airport is adequately serviced by our very own, Fiji Airways, Qantas subsidiary low-cost carrier Jetstar and billionaire Richard Branson’s Virgin airline.

These international airlines provide more than sufficient seats to/from Nadi airport from various departure airports in Australia.

Let us promptly refresh our fading memories. I believe Fiji’s economy was brought to its knees after the manmade disasters of 1987, 2000 and 2006.

I believe one of these manmade catastrophes prompted our Australian big brother airline, Qantas, to “ditch” flights into Nadi International Airport.

Now, just as our own national carrier is gaining much recognition, growth and spreads her wings to distant shores, to respectfully ease dependence on Australian and New Zealand travellers, “big boy Qantas” returns to our shores.

Looking at the big picture, all concerned in Fiji tourism strive real hard to attract some 900,000 international tourists through 12 very hardworking months of 2018.

(It will take Fiji 10 long years, like 2018, to try to match tourists to Australia in 2017, alone).

Australian Bureau of Statistics reports 9.3 million tourists to Australian in 2017.

Wikipedia reports, in the same year, 2017, Qantas revenue to $16.1b. Operating income of $1.58b.

Total assets of $17.2b.

Total equity $3.54b.

Total employees 26,150.

Aircraft fleet size in access of 200.

I agree competition is good and healthy but not at the expense of “killing” our national carrier, and minnows, Fiji Airways.

Please do not take a piece of our cake and destroy Fiji Airways.

We will have too much to lose.

RONNIE CHANG

Mountainview, Martintar, Nadi