Pacific Tourism Organisation Engages in Regional Aviation Ministers Meeting

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) was privileged to present at the recent Third Regional Aviation Ministers Meeting (RAMM3), hosted by the Government of Fiji at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva.

Presenting under the theme “Strengthening Regional Partnership for a Safe, Secure, and Sustainable Aviation Future,” SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker emphasized the critical role of aviation in Pacific tourism and economic & sustainable resilience.

During the presentation, SPTO provided key insights into its Strategic Plan 2025-2029, highlighting its alignment with the Pacific Regional Aviation Strategy (PRAS). Additionally, SPTO shared details on its collaborations with DFAT-funded Partners for Aviation (P4A) programme to enhance sustainable air connectivity across the region.

“SPTO’s participation underscored the importance of fostering strong partnerships between tourism and aviation stakeholders to ensure a more accessible, competitive, and sustainable future for Pacific travel. Recognizing the interdependence of these sectors, SPTO reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside aviation partners to advance regional connectivity and resilience, Mr Cocker shared.

The two-day meeting culminated in the historic adoption of the Suva Declaration on Regional Collaboration and Aviation Connectivity. This landmark document builds upon the Port Moresby Declaration on Aviation Safety and Security Oversight and sets a strategic vision for the future of aviation in the Pacific.a

The Suva Declaration outlines eight key pillars to drive regional aviation development:

1. Strengthening Regional Collaboration
2. Enhancing Safety and Security
3. Promoting Environmentally Sustainable Aviation Connectivity
4. Expanding Inclusive and Accessible Connectivity
5. Building Capacity and Resilience
6. Enhancing International Air Law Framework
7. Advancing Innovation and Digital Transformation
8. Ensuring Financial and Economic Sustainability

By endorsing these pillars, participating ministers and industry leaders demonstrated a collective commitment to strengthening aviation in the Pacific. The declaration ensures that the region remains resilient, competitive, and environmentally responsible amid global challenges.

SPTO extends its gratitude to all RAMM3 participants for their dedication to advancing regional aviation. The organisation looks forward to continued collaboration to enhance tourism growth and economic sustainability across the Pacific.