Video: Fiji Airways’ stunning new safety film set to take flight in December as nation opens
Shot across seven locations, the five-minute safety briefing, which will debut on December 1 in-line with Fiji Airways’ re-booting of quarantine-free flights from Sydney the same day, is delivered amongst some of the many initiatives being undertaken to preserve the airline’s beautiful yet fragile home.
According to Fiji Airways’ Managing Director and CEO, Andre Viljoen, these include mangrove rehabilitation projects, solar powered resorts, turtle sanctuaries and coral nurseries, among others.
“The unveiling of this production is more than just another safety video,” he said. “It’s very symbolic of the journey we have been on for the past 18 months and our return to the skies in an eco-sustainable manner.
“The production started before COVID-19 struck, so to be able to finally play it onboard our aircraft signals that we are very close to welcoming tourists back to Fiji,” Viljoen said.
With more than 84% of the adult population double vaccinated, and a mandate for all adult employees to be fully vaxxed by 1st November, he said Fiji is on track to be one the most COVID-safe travel destinations on the planet.
The video which opens up on Fiji’s iconic Malamala Beach Club includes a number of pilots and cabin crew in addition to professional actors. From under-water shots to high flying drone action, the production takes viewers on a journey of discovery into Fiji’s vast and beautiful environment.
At each location a local resort, business or initiative is introduced by the cabin crew member and championed for its eco-sustainability efforts.
It also features footage onboard Fiji Airways’ luxurious A350 aircraft – it’s most eco-sustainable aircraft to date and one which will be seen regularly flying between Sydney and Nadi.
Current Fiji Airways staff feature heavily in the production, including First Officer Pilots Petrina Simpson and Vinay Makanji , as well as Lounge staff member Liku Gucake. The voiceover used throughout is also that of Reservations Senior Manager Anna Morris – adding to its authenticity and playing homage to Fiji’s family values.
It also features cameo appearances from Fiji’s world renowned Fijiana womens and Fijian Mens rugby sevens teams, who are fresh from recent success in Tokyo. Fijiana players Tokasa Seniyasai, Reijeli Uluinayau and Verenaisi Bari feature alongside their male counterparts Mele Derenalagi, Alasio Naduva, and Livai Ikanikoda. Plus, past and present players from the popular Crusaders Super Rugby team, Manasa Mataele, Tom Christie and Inga Finau.
“As an airline, eco-sustainability is a journey we are committed to taking,” Viljoen said. “Fuel is a major contributor to an airline’s carbon emissions, and we use state-of-the-art software systems like SkyBreathe to monitor, track and optimise our use of fuel.
“Over the years, aircraft technology has advanced, airframes have become lighter and pilots more aware of economical fuel burn. All this contributes to lower fuel usage by modern aircraft.
“Fiji Airways has two A350 XWB aircraft and five Boeing 737 MAX in its fleet, which are among the most fuel-efficient aircraft in the world.
“The reduction in fuel usage and carbon dioxide emission is a focus for our airline, and aligned with the leadership role that Fiji plays in bringing the world’s attention to the adverse impact of climate change on nations like ours.
“The work that some of our partners on the ground in Fiji have been doing with regards to eco-sustainability and conservation is quite incredible. We’re delighted to showcase these to a wider audience through our digital channels and inflight while reiterating our commitment to safety.
“We are confident that others will take inspiration from some of these initiatives,” Viljoen said.
A number of leading Fiji Airways were also involved in the production, including Shane Hussein, Bruce Rounds, Angeline Lal, Hem Chand and Sandeepak Ratnam.