Computer rendering supplied
FIJI Airways is turning to unmanned electric aircraft to run an air cargo service for all of the South Pacific country’s 330 islands.
California-based Odys Aviation and Fiji Airways announced that they had signed an expression of interest letter for its “runway-independent” hybrid VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) cargo aircraft, the Laila.
A pilot program using these aircraft is expected to start in 2025 starting with a roll-out of ground control stations.
A statement from Odys Aviation says its Laila aircraft have a 400-mile range to allow it to cover Fiji’s smaller, outlying islands.
“There’s no doubt that the era of sustainable aviation is upon us,” says Fiji Airways CEO Andre Viljoen.
“Through our partnership with Odys Aviation, Fiji Airways is strengthening its focus on reducing aviation emissions and defining a roadmap to serve the next generation of travellers,” he says.
“This partnership will do more than just expand Fiji Airways’ commercial operations for today; it will drive our investment in the future of travel and lifestyle for the people of Fiji as well.”
Flights using these aircraft are expected to provide a low-carbon air cargo alternative for routes across the South Pacific and will open up new emergency medical routes.
Odys also believes its Laila aircraft will allow Fiji Airways to expand its commercial opportunities via new contracts for regional NGO operations.
“We’re thrilled to announce this EOI as the start of our collaboration with Fiji Airways,” says James Dorris, CEO and Co-Founder of Odys Aviation.
“We’re looking forward to working with their team, local authorities and the people of Fiji to drive the transition to sustainable aviation, and to realize the benefits of a more connected ecosystem across the region.”
The news follows Odys Aviation’s recent announcement of a partnership with Honeywell; the companies will work on designing the ground control stations to support the Pacific rollout of Laila.
Founded in 1951, Fiji Airways serves 108 destinations in over 15 countries (including code-share): Australia, New Zealand, US, Canada, UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Japan, China, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and New Caledonia.
Fiji Airways rebranded from Air Pacific in June 2013.
