Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights© FijiPocketGuide.com
Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights

Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights

© FijiPocketGuide.com
Last Updated: 23 October, 2024

Flying in Fiji: A Guide to Local and Domestic Flights

In an archipelago of some 333 islands, it’s almost a given that you’ll be doing some overwater travel in Fiji. While ferries and cargo boats are an option for getting around the islands, nothing beats the speed and convenience of flying. In Fiji, travellers not only have the option of domestic airlines taking them from airport to airport and island to island, but there are also charter planesseaplanes, and helicopters, which are an experience in themselves. With that, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to domestic flights in Fiji, including how it all works, routes and more. Get scrolling!

Table of Contents

10 Things to Know About Flying in Fiji

Before you jet off to paradise, there are a few things you should know about flying in Fiji. From scenic seaplane rides to helicopter hops between islands, air travel in Fiji is an adventure in itself! Here are ten essential tips to ensure your Fijian flying experience is as smooth as the crystal-clear waters below.

  1. The airports aren’t the only places you can fly to in FijiHelicopters take passengers to land on resort helipads or beaches, while seaplanes take passengers to the waters right outside of waterfront resorts!
  2. Scheduled flights are the cheapest way to fly – Check out the typical price of flights in How Much Does it Cost to Fly in Fiji?
  3. Baggage allowances are limited on domestic flights – The most restrictive baggage allowance is on helicopters and scheduled domestic flights, which are usually around 15 kg (33 lb) per person. Helicopter operators can organise a luggage transfer by boat for an extra fee, while domestic flights can be upgraded to an international baggage allowance if booking your international and domestic flights together. Seaplane flights usually have a baggage allowance of around 20 kg (44 lb).
  4. Seaplanes are not for everyone – Take-off and landing can be pretty bumpy, which often makes nervous fliers more, well, nervous. What’s more, passengers will need to be able to climb into a boat or paddle through water for a short distance to get to land, which doesn’t make seaplanes suitable for people with recent injuries or mobility issues.
  5. Get travel insurance in case your flight is cancelled – A common cause for flights to cancel is when the weather is unsuitable to fly. In these cases, flights are rescheduled. If that doesn’t work for you, it’s best to have some travel insurance so you are able to get your money back (in theory – you know what those pesky insurers are like). Request that the flight company/airline provide a letter to the insurer.
  6. There needs to be at least two passengers for flights to run – The minimum number of passengers required for helicopter and seaplane charter flights to run is two. If you’re travelling solo, you may have to pay single-passenger rates or wait on standby until more seats on your chosen flight are filled.
  7. Choose carefully between helicopters and seaplanes – While both helicopters and seaplanes are a fun way to get between the islands of Fiji, note that they both have their drawbacks. See our full comparison of the two in Helicopter Vs. Seaplane for Island Transfers in Fiji.
  8. Scenic flight tours and day trips are amazing ways to see the islands – Scenic helicopter flights are available from Nadi and Denarau, lasting 10 minutes to 55 minutes. Day trips also provide a fantastic way to see the islands, stop off at attractions, enjoy a Fijian lunch, and relax on the beach. Get inspiration for scenic flight tours and day trips in 10 Best Scenic Flights in Fiji.
  9. Seaplane and helicopter transfers run on “Fiji Time” – While helicopter and seaplane transfers will get passengers to their connecting flights out of Fiji on time, there is often some waiting around to do. Aviation companies will often give passengers an early pick-up time to allow time to be late, in case they run behind schedule, which does happen. In this case, be prepared to wait around for a couple of hours – maybe order another cocktail. Learn more about Fiji Time in What Does Fiji Time Mean? (& What You Need to Know About It).
  10. Skydiving is a thing in Fiji – Fly over both the islands of Viti Levu and the Mamanuca Islands with Skydive Fiji. See The Best Places to Do Skydiving in Fiji to learn more.

Now that you’re armed with these essential flying tips, you’re ready to explore the stunning islands of Fiji from both the air and ground. Keep reading for more insider advice on making the most of your Fijian adventure!

Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights© FijiPocketGuide.com

Fiji Flight Schedule and Routes: Where Can You Fly to in Fiji?

There are two main domestic airlines with scheduled flights within Fiji: Fiji Link (otherwise known as Fiji Airways) and Northern Air. Flights are available to all Fiji regions, connecting to Nadi International Airport or Nausori International Airport (Suva).

Flight Routes in Fiji

Here’s a quick overview of the flight routes in Fiji, their duration, and the number of flights there in a day. Note that the number of flights operating per day is a rough indication, as this changes with the demand for flights:

Fiji Domestic Flight Schedule

Route⏱️ Duration✈️ Flights per Day/Week📅 Airline
Nadi – Suva30 minutes10 flights dailyFiji Link
Nadi – Labasa45 minutes1 flight dailyFiji Link
Nadi – Savusavu1 hr 10 mins4 flights dailyFiji Link
Nadi – Taveuni1 hr 25 mins2 flights dailyFiji Link
Nadi – Kadavu50 minutes4 flights weekly
(Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday)
Fiji Link
Nadi – Rotuma1 hr 30 mins1 flight weekly
(Friday)
Fiji Link
Suva – Levuka10 minutes5 flights weekly
(Monday–Friday)
Northern Air
Suva – Savusavu1 hr 15 mins3 flights weeklyNorthern Air
Suva – Labasa40 minutes2 flights daily with Fiji Link
+ 1 additional flight per day with Northern Air
(Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
Fiji Link + Northern Air
Suva – Taveuni1 hr4 flights weekly with Fiji Link
(Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday)
+ 1 additional flight per day with Northern Air
(Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
Fiji Link + Northern Air
Suva – Vanua Balavu1 hr 10 mins1 flight weekly
(Wednesday)
Fiji Link
Suva – Koro35 minutes1 flight weekly
(Friday)
Fiji Link
Suva – Moala45 minutes1 flight weekly
(Tuesday/Wednesday)
Northern Air
Suva – Gau45 minutes1 flight weekly
(Tuesday/Wednesday)
Northern Air
Suva – Rotuma1 hr 35 mins1 flight weekly
(Wednesday)
Fiji Link

 

Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights© FijiPocketGuide.com

Full Northern Air Destinations List

Northern Air offers inter-island flights between Suva and the following destinations:

  • Taveuni
  • Savusavu
  • Labasa
  • Gau
  • Moala
  • Levuka

Full Fiji Link Destinations List

Fiji Link offers inter-island flights between Nadi Airport and the following destinations:

  • Labasa
  • Taveuni
  • Kadavu
  • Savusavu
  • Labasa
  • Suva
  • Rotuma

And between Suva and the following destinations:

  • Taveuni
  • Savusavu
  • Koro
  • Vanua Balavu
  • Rotuma
  • Nadi

For more information on the arrival airport on each island, check out our guide to Airports in Fiji: Where Can You Fly to in Fiji?

Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights© FijiPocketGuide.com

Fiji Domestic Flight Formalities

How do domestic flights work in Fiji? Most domestic flights depart from Nadi International Airport at the domestic terminal, which is a short walk from international arrivals (keep the airport building on your left). Domestic flights also depart to the outer islands from Nausori International Airport near Suva, which is a tiny building that is easy to navigate.

For domestic flights in Fiji, you must check in between 90 and 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Don’t forget to bring some ID (for tourists, that means your passport). If you’re flying on a smaller aircraft, be prepared to be weighed along with your carry-on luggage. When departing from Nadi Airport, there’s an additional security check in the departure lounge. We recommend giving yourself plenty of time to go through this process – after all, you’re on “Fiji time” now!

If you or anyone you are booking for has special needs, make sure that you contact Fiji Link or Northern Air to make special arrangements – see more advice in Accessibility in Fiji: Travellers with Disabilities, Wheelchair Access & More.

Baggage Allowance for Flights in Fiji

Your carry-on baggage allowance for flights with Fiji Link and Northern Air is 7 kg (15 lbs) with dimensions not exceeding 115 cm (45 in). The check-in baggage allowance is 15 kg (33 lbs). If you book your international flight and domestic flights together with Fiji Airways (Fiji Link), however, you will be allocated the appropriate international baggage allowance, which is typically one piece of 30 kg (66 lb) luggage for economy class.

Oversize Baggage

Oversized baggage and sporting equipment are permitted, subject to space. An excess baggage fee applies for these items, which is FJ$120-$150 per item.

The Cost of Domestic Flights in Fiji

For more information about airfares and the cost of flying in Fiji can be found in our complete guide, Domestic Airfares in Fiji: How Much Does it Cost to Fly in Fiji?

Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights© FijiPocketGuide.com

Charter Plane and Seaplane Flights in Fiji

For those looking to reach stunning island destinations like the Mamanuca Islands and the Yasawa Islands, or simply craving a more intimate flying experience, charter planes and seaplanes offer an exciting way to travel in Fiji. These services operate on flexible schedules, typically every hour, or can be chartered specifically for your group, time, and destination. Adding a touch of luxury to your trip, planes and seaplanes provide a unique perspective of Fiji’s breathtaking landscapes. For more details on taking a plane in Fiji, check out our guide on Where to Hire a Plane or Seaplane in Fiji.

Charter Plane and Seaplane Destinations

Island Hoppers Fiji offers charter plane flights connecting Nadi Airport with various destinations, including:

  • Malolo Island in the Mamanuca Islands
  • Pacific Harbour
  • Savusavu Airport on Vanua Levu
  • Matei Airport on Taveuni
  • Nausori Airport in Suva
  • Kadavu

Pacific Island Air provides both plane and seaplane services, connecting Nadi Airport with:

  • Mamanuca Islands
  • Yasawa Islands
  • Suncoast
  • Vanua Levu
  • Taveuni
  • Pacific Harbour
  • Kadavu

Turtle Airways operates seaplane flights from Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi to resorts in the Mamanuca Islands and the Yasawa Islands.

Fiji Link offers private charter services catering to various needs, from corporate trips to group getaways and special events.

For the ultimate in luxury, some exclusive resorts boast their own private aircraft, including COMO Laucala Island, Vatuvara Private Islands, and Kokomo Private Island (the latter is also available for private charter services from Nadi).

For more information on taking a plane in Fiji, don’t miss our comprehensive guide on Where to Hire a Plane or Seaplane in Fiji.

The Cost of Plane and Seaplane Flights in Fiji

Curious about the prices for these exciting aerial adventures? We’ve got you covered! Compare costs and find the best option for your budget in our detailed breakdown: How Much Does it Cost to Fly in Fiji?

Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights© FijiPocketGuide.com

Helicopter Flights in Fiji

For the ultimate luxurious air travel experience in Fiji, consider a transfer by helicopter. A small selection of helicopter operators service the Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands, regions of Viti Levu, as well as Vanua Levu and Taveuni. The main advantage of helicopters is their ability to drop passengers off right at the doorstep of resorts. However, it’s worth noting that helicopters generally don’t accommodate longer-distance flights and have limited baggage allowances. For more detailed information, check out our guide on Where to Hire a Helicopter in Fiji.

Helicopter Destinations

Islands Hoppers Fiji transfers passengers between Nadi Airport and the Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands, Denarau, the Coral Coast, the Suncoast and the Pacific Harbour and Beqa.

Heli-Tours Fiji operates transfers between Nadi Airport and the Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands, the Coral Coast and the Pacific Harbour and Beqa.

Pacific Island Air provides transfers between Nadi Airport or the Denarau Helipad to the Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands, the Coral Coast, Pacific Harbour and Beqa, the Suncoast and Vanua Levu.

The Cost of Helicopter Flights in Fiji

To compare prices and get a better understanding of the costs involved, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on How Much Does it Cost to Fly in Fiji?

Domestic Flights in Fiji: Your Guide to Interisland Flights© FijiPocketGuide.com

Scenic Flights and Tours in Fiji

While some travellers don’t require overwater transport to get to their resort in Fiji, it doesn’t mean they have to miss out on a scenic flight experience. Both Fiji’s seaplane and helicopter companies offer scenic flight tours and day trips. Skydiving is also available in Fiji, combining adrenaline thrills with a scenic flight over the islands.

Scenic Flights and Tours Destinations

Most scenic flights in Fiji depart from either Nadi Airport, Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi or Denarau, all of which are on the island of Viti Levu. Learn more about the scenic flights and day trips available in the 10 Best Scenic Flights in Fiji.

The Cost of Scenic Flights and Tours in Fiji

Compare more prices in How Much Does it Cost to Fly in Fiji?

More About Domestic Flights in Fiji

That’s it from the guide to domestic flights in Fiji. For more tips to help navigate the skies, check out the following:

Finally, check out more transport options around the islands in our Fiji Transport Guide: 20 Best Ways to Get Around Fiji.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Fiji and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Our editorial standards: At Fiji Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura (Lora) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Fiji Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Fiji. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Fiji’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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