Former Virgin Australia chief Paul Scurrah named new Fiji Airways Managing Director
Scurrah was an incredibly popular CEO at Virgin Australia in his time with the airline and the hiring of the very experienced executive is fantastic news for Fiji Airways staff and customers alike.
“Scurrah brings to the role more than two decades of executive experience across aviation, transport, logistics and tourism,” said Fiji Airways Group Chairman, Nalin Patel.
“His proven track record in leading complex organisations, driving cultural transformation, results-driven leadership, and delivering exceptional stakeholder value makes him an ideal leader for our next chapter.
“Most recently, Scurrah served as CEO of Pacific National, Australia’s largest private rail freight company, where he led a comprehensive transformation focused on operational excellence, safety innovation, and commercial sustainability.
“His leadership oversaw investments in new technologies, rolling stock and strengthened customer partnerships, reinforcing its critical role in the national supply chain.
“Scurrah previously held the position of CEO at Virgin Australia, the Nation’s second-largest airline, where he built strong momentum across operations, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction.
“He was recognised for his strategic leadership, steering the airline through one of the most turbulent periods in modern aviation, the COVID-19 pandemic.
“When international travel came to a halt, Scurrah led a rapid and complex restructuring that preserved core routes, safeguarded jobs, and positioned the airline for recovery.
“Marked by operational discipline and a strong safety ethos, Scurrah’s leadership style is defined by integrity, resilience, and strategic clarity.
“He is widely regarded for his ability to motivate diverse teams, foster high-performance cultures, and deliver long-term, measurable results in the most challenging environments.
“The Board is confident that under his leadership, Fiji Airways will be guided through the dynamic challenges of global aviation and beyond, continuing to thrive and delivering on its promise to be the airline of choice in the region and internationally, while maintaining strong financial discipline, customer excellence, and national pride,” Patel said.
He said The Board sincerely thanks Viljoen for a decade of exceptional leadership as Managing Director and CEO of Fiji Airways.
“Under his stewardship, the airline achieved significant growth, navigating unprecedented global challenges, emerging stronger and more resilient.
“His commitment to excellence, innovation, and national pride has left a lasting legacy, and we thank him for his contribution to Fiji Airways,” Patel said.
He said Viljoen will remain on the Fiji Airways Board of Directors as his new role at Air Mauritius does not create a conflict of interest, as the airline serves different regions.