Fiji’s national airline has once again put the country on the global map, recognised for its signature warmth, world-class service, and culinary flair in the skies.
Fiji Airways has taken home two major titles at the 2026 APEX Best in Airline Awards: Best Cabin Service and Best Food & Beverage in the South Pacific. The recognition reaffirms what travellers already know – that genuine Fijian hospitality extends far beyond the islands, reaching all the way to 35,000 feet.
Hosted by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), one of the world’s most respected airline rating organisations, the awards were announced during the APEX FTE Asia EXPO at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Winners were determined from over one million verified passenger votes collected independently via TripIt by Concur, the world’s most trusted travel-organising app.
A Small Airline Making Big Global Waves
This recognition follows another milestone for Fiji Airways: being named an APEX World Class Airline for 2026, placing it among the top 10 airlines in the world. Remarkably, it’s the smallest airline by fleet size to ever receive this honour, and the only carrier in Oceania to do so.
Managing Director and CEO Paul Scurrah said the awards reflect the airline’s dedication and passion.
“These wins reinforce our position as a premium carrier in the region. Our continued investment in service quality, dining innovation, and training ensures that the warmth of Fiji shines through in every aspect of the journey. We’re proud of this achievement, and we’re just getting started.”
Chief Customer Officer Akuila Batiweti added that the recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from passengers.
“Our cabin crew and culinary teams work tirelessly to deliver a uniquely Fijian experience, one that blends warm island hospitality, exceptional service, and authentic flavours. To be recognised by our guests is incredibly rewarding.”
Redefining Inflight Dining: A Pacific Rim Culinary Journey
Behind the awards lies Fiji Airways’ ongoing transformation of its inflight experience. The airline recently launched a Pacific Rim menu and On-Demand Dining for Business Class, an inspired fusion of flavours from across the Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and North America.
The menu celebrates local Fijian ingredients, showcasing the best of the islands through fresh seasonal produce, artisanal Fijian chocolate, and even a handcrafted Vau flower as a finishing touch. Guests can dine at their own pace, with dishes freshly plated onboard and paired with a refined wine and beverage service.
Travellers in Economy Class are also enjoying an enhanced experience, with new meal options, mocktails, cocktails, hot chocolate, and an expanded selection of snacks and beverages available throughout the flight.
Setting New Standards for Pacific Hospitality
The APEX Best in Airline Awards recognise excellence in passenger experience across more than 600 airlines worldwide, highlighting standout achievements in comfort, service, food, and connectivity.
For Fiji Airways, the dual wins are more than just industry recognition. They reflect the airline’s ongoing commitment to sharing Fiji’s warmth with the world.
With thoughtful dining, heartfelt service, and an unmistakable island spirit, Fiji Airways continues to set new benchmarks for hospitality, bringing the essence of Fiji to every journey.
Story curated and published by EXPLORE Fiji – connecting people, place, and culture.
Source: Fiji Airways. Nadi.
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