Fiji Airways Platinum Partners with Pacific Tourism Organisation for South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2026

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) announced its strategic partnership with Fiji Airways for the South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) 2026, scheduled to take place from 25–26 March 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Resort & Spa, Wailoaloa Beach, Nadi, Fiji.

Held under the theme “Tourism that Connects: Culture, Climate, Community,” SPTE 2026 will highlight the Pacific’s collective journey as a region united by shared heritage, environmental stewardship, and community-driven tourism development. Drawing inspiration from the Pacific vaka, a powerful symbol of connection, navigation, and partnership, the event reinforces the importance of regional collaboration in strengthening tourism resilience and sustainable growth.

The partnership reflects Fiji Airways’ continued commitment to supporting tourism development across the Pacific and strengthening connectivity between Pacific destinations and global markets. Following a four-year hiatus, SPTE resumed in 2023 after international borders reopened, with the event hosted in Christchurch, New Zealand, attracting Pacific sellers and international buyers from key global markets. Building on that momentum, this year’s event is set to further strengthen engagement between global tourism operators and the Pacific region’s diverse offerings.

As part of this collaboration, Fiji Airways will provide critical flight support for selected trade partners, international media, and key tourism stakeholders, enabling broader participation and market exposure for Pacific tourism operators.

SPTE 2026 will build on the event’s longstanding reputation as the Pacific’s premier tourism marketplace, creating opportunities for international buyers and tourism operators to engage directly with the region’s diverse and authentic tourism offerings, including emerging destinations and community-based tourism experiences.

SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker welcomed the partnership, emphasising the airline’s pivotal role in enabling Pacific tourism growth and regional integration.

“Fiji Airways is more than a carrier for our region — it is a connector of Pacific people, cultures, and economies. This partnership reflects our shared vision of navigating the future of Pacific tourism together, much like our ancestors who voyaged across the ocean guided by knowledge, trust, and collaboration. Through SPTE 2026, we are strengthening our collective vaka by creating pathways for sustainable tourism that support our communities, safeguards our environment, and celebrate our cultural identity.”

Mr Cocker added that reliable air connectivity remains fundamental to ensuring equitable participation of Pacific destinations in global tourism opportunities and strengthening regional economic development.

Fiji Airways Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Paul Scurrah reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to supporting the Pacific tourism sector and strengthening industry partnerships.

“As the Pacific’s world-class flagship carrier, Fiji Airways is proud to partner with Pacific Tourism Organisation for SPTE 2026. True connectivity goes beyond flights; it’s about linking communities, enabling opportunity, and sharing the Pacific’s story with the world.

Tourism is a key economic driver for our region, and SPTE provides a valuable platform to create new business opportunities, attract investment, and support long-term resilience across Pacific destinations.”

As the Pacific’s premier regional tourism marketplace, the Pacific Tourism Organisation’s SPTE 2026 will convene tourism operators, international buyers, development partners, and media to strengthen partnerships, generate business opportunities, and showcase authentic Pacific experiences. The event will also feature Industry Day and a dedicated Women in Business component, reinforcing collaboration, knowledge exchange, and inclusive growth across the Pacific tourism sector.