Aviation in the Pacific in the Spotlight for Ministerial Meeting

Aviation is a critical service and enabler in the Pacific, acting as a bridge in the sky connecting us to the world.  To heighten the role of aviation in the region, particularly to the tourism sector, the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) has taken the lead in preparing a White Paper ahead of the Regional Aviation Ministers Meeting jointly organised by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and Pacific Aviation Safety Office (PASO). The Ministerial meeting will convene in April 2021 and will bring together the Ministers of 18 Pacific nations. 

“The SPTO intends to table a White paper in an effort to have aviation and its significance to Pacific nations tourism sector highlighted and its essential contribution further enhanced and supported through new policy recommendations, post COVID 19” said SPTO CEO, Christopher Cocker. 

Key stakeholders within the region will be asked to contribute to the paper being prepared by recently appointed global aviation firm, Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting (APAC) who will assist SPTO in preparing the White paper.

“The Pacific has a vast array of attractive natural wonders and spectacular scenery.  Tourism is a key industry in the region, and aviation unlocks tourism livelihoods, while also providing connectivity for business, sport, education and much more”, noted Mr Cocker. 

APAC Director Matthew Findlay agreed, stating “we’re honoured to be selected to undertake this crucial piece of thought leadership for SPTO, its members and the people of the Pacific’s tourism sector that rely so heavily on aviation.  Through our research and strategic insights, we look forward to highlighting to Ministers options to pursue new pathways for growth in supporting the recovery of the region in a post COVID world”.

The recommendations in the White Paper will be developed through consultation being undertaken through January until mid-February.

It is hoped the Paper will lift awareness of aviation’s importance in the region, particularly the Pacific’s tourism industry, in turn enhancing opportunities for the people of the Pacific.

About SPTO

Established in 1983 as the Tourism Council of the South Pacific, the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) is the mandated organisation representing Tourism in the region. Its 21 Government members are American Samoa, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, Marshall Islands, New Caledonia, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Rapa Nui, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu Wallis & Futuna and the People’s Republic of China. In addition to government members, the South Pacific Tourism Organisation also enlists a private sector membership base.

About Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting

Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting is an international firm specializing in Air Service Development. We provide advice to Boards, CEOs, Business Development Managers, and other senior managers to help them define aviation strategy, identify new markets and business opportunities, and develop their organisations.

For more information, contact:

SPTO:

Tahitia Waqavonovono, Executive & Communications Adviser, twaqavonovono@spto.org

Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting:

Matthew Findlay, Director, matthew.findlay@ailevonpacific.com