Fiji Airways has launched its first-ever direct service between Nadi International Airport (NAN) and Gold Coast Airport (OOL), adding one of Australia’s most popular leisure destinations to the national carrier’s network.
The inaugural flight departed Nadi on the morning of June 11, 2026 and touched down at the Gold Coast at 11:30 local time.
Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was among the passengers on the first service, alongside Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans and Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO Paul Scurrah. The aircraft was welcomed with a traditional ceremony honoring the bonds of Vanua, culture, and community.
A proud day for Fiji Airways as we launch our inaugural Nadi–Gold Coast service, strengthening connectivity between Fiji, Queensland and beyond through our Nadi hub. pic.twitter.com/jWLRCijv1l
— Fiji Airways✈️ (@FijiAirways) June 11, 2026
The return flight, the first Fiji Airways service from the Gold Coast to Nadi, departed at 12:30 local time and arrived in Nadi at 17:55 local time after a three-hour, 25-minute flight.
Nadi-Gold Coast route details
The service operates three times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays using a Boeing 737 MAX 8 configured with eight business class and 162 economy seats.
The airline said the route will add over 53,000 seats annually to the market.
The Gold Coast becomes Fiji Airways’ seventh Australian destination, joining Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Cairns, and Canberra. The route also opens up one-stop connections through Nadi to the airline’s wider international network, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vancouver, Honolulu, and key Pacific Island and Asian destinations.
Strong early demand
Fiji Airways CEO Paul Scurrah said demand has been exceptional since the route was announced.
“The Gold Coast shares Fiji’s warmth, energy and spirit of adventure,” he said. “We are delighted to bring our world-class hospitality to every Gold Coaster who steps on board, and as we pursue our vision to become the world’s happiest airline, this new connection is another proud step in that journey.”
Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said the route is a valuable addition ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, when Gold Coast Airport will serve as an international gateway. She noted that Fiji also acts as an important hub, making it easier for visitors from markets like Los Angeles, Honolulu, and Canada to reach the Gold Coast.
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn pointed to the North American connection as a key opportunity. He said 51,000 visitors from those markets traveled to the Gold Coast in 2025, spending a total of AU$109 million (US$70 million).