Aviation Australia has strengthened its growing international training portfolio with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Oceania Institute of Technology (OIT), establishing a framework to deliver globally recognised aviation training programs across Fiji and the wider Pacific region.
The partnership marks another significant milestone in Aviation Australia’s international expansion strategy, extending its industry-leading aviation training capability into one of the Pacific’s most important aviation markets while creating new education and career pathways for students throughout the region
Combining Aviation Australia’s internationally recognised training expertise, including its European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part-147 approval, with OIT’s established educational presence and industry connections in Fiji, the collaboration will explore opportunities to deliver remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), ground operations and other aviation-related programs aligned to regional workforce needs.
Chris Pigott, Business Manager, NT, Queensland North and South West Pacific for Aviation Australia, said the partnership reflected the organisation’s commitment to supporting aviation workforce development across emerging and established international markets.
“Fiji plays a critical role in connecting communities, economies and industries throughout the Pacific, making it an ideal location to support the growth of aviation capability across the region.
Through this partnership, we will explore opportunities to provide internationally recognised aviation training closer to where students live and work, while supporting employers to build the skilled workforce needed for future industry growth.”
Mr Pigott said the agreement further strengthened Aviation Australia’s growing network of international partnerships and reinforced its reputation as a trusted global provider of aviation education and workforce development solutions.
“As aviation continues to grow across the Asia-Pacific region, partnerships such as this enable us to work closely with industry, governments and education providers to develop sustainable training pathways that create lasting economic and employment benefits.”
Under the agreement, the organisations will jointly investigate aviation training opportunities in Fiji, including regulatory and accreditation requirements, facility and resource development, and pathways to employment and structured workplace learning.
Dr Hasmukh Lal, Group CEO and Managing Director of Oceania Institute of Technology, welcomed the partnership and its potential to contribute to Fiji’s long-term workforce development objectives.
“This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to broaden access to high-quality aviation education and strengthen the skills base required to support the region’s growing aviation sector.
By working with Aviation Australia, we can explore new opportunities for students and industry participants to access internationally recognised training and contribute to the continued development of aviation across Fiji and the Pacific.”
The partnership will also seek to engage airlines, aviation employers, government agencies and development partners to support workforce development initiatives and strengthen aviation capability throughout Fiji and neighbouring Pacific nations.
A joint working group will oversee the next phase of the collaboration, including market assessments, program development opportunities, infrastructure planning and future service agreements to support the delivery of aviation training programs.