Carrier Fiji Airways has unveiled a plan to buy three new DHC-6 Series 400 Twin Otter planes from Viking Air for an undisclosed sum.

The aircraft will be operated by Fiji Airways’ subsidiary Fiji Link and will help upgrade and expand the subsidiary’s current Twin Otter fleet.

Once delivered, the new planes will replace two of Fiji Link’s existing three Series 300 aircraft and increase the airline’s Twin Otter fleet to four units.

Delivery of the new aircraft is set to begin by October and expected to be completed by early next year.

“It’s a reflection of our commitment to the Fijian tourism industry."

Fiji Airways group managing director and CEO Andre Viljoen said: “This investment is in line with the overall modernisation of the entire group fleet.

“With more aircraft, we can increase daily flights to key local destinations. Our capacity to Savusavu and Taveuni will grow by 30%, which will be welcome news to tourism operators in these regions.

“It’s a reflection of our commitment to the Fijian tourism industry and we will work closely with our partners in the North to increase visitor arrivals and connectivity."

Fiji Link’s new aircraft will feature air-conditioned cabins for increased customer comfort.

They will also include improved digital avionics systems and operating features to enhance operational reliability.

Viljoen added: “Our team is also considering converting one of our current Twin Otter aircraft into a multi-use vehicle to cater not only for additional scheduled flying but to provide opportunities for new charter business, medical evacuation services and carriage of freight.”

Fiji Link also has an option to buy a fourth new Series 400 Twin Otter aircraft. The carrier expects to make a decision on exercising this option next year.

Image: A Series 400 Twin Otter aircraft. Photo: courtesy of Fiji Airways.