Suva, Fiji: A major international airline is looking at Japan - Fiji opportunities following Air Pacific's withdrawal from the Japanese market, reports Fiji Sun.

Executives of Continental Airlines were in the country last week to explore the possibility of setting up flights between Japan and Nadi via Guam.

Chairman of Japan Inbound Tour Operators Committee (JITOC) Kenji Noda said Air Pacific’s withdrawal of direct flights to and from Japan at the end of this month was the reason behind the visit.

“Air Pacific’s withdrawal will largely affect the number of Japanese tourists coming to Fiji and while they can still travel with the connecting flights of other airlines such as Korean Airlines (via Seoul, three times a week) or Air Calin (via Noumea, once a week) it’s not sufficient enough to maintain the good volume of business due to the inconveniences, the seat availability, and the lack of sales promotions,” Mr Noda said.

He said Continental Airlines is now thinking of operating flights between Nadi and Guam which is on the way between Japan and Fiji.

“This is where more than 800,000 Japanese tourists are visiting a year. The airline flies from there to eight cities in Japan so if it’s confirmed, Guam can be like a hub for those Japanese passengers who connect the flight to and from Nadi,” Mr Noda said.

“They are only targeting the Japanese market for this route so, in order to attract business, they must promote Fiji in the market through their existing business channel for Guam or other destinations,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tourism Fiji has welcomed the “Open Sky” policy by the interim Government as it would have long term benefits for Fiji’s tourism industry.

TF Chairman Patrick Wong said low cost carriers have greater flexibility when it comes to operational costs, pricing, planning and the encouragement of airline carriers venturing, flying out of non mainstream ports. “Securing additional airline seats is a key performer for increasing visitor arrivals in our Tourism Development Plans” said Mr Wong while responding to queries regarding plans by aviation newcomer Jetstar Airways.

Interim Minister for Aviation, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said any new airline opening up would benefit Fiji. He said the arrival of any new airline would open up more sources of tourists for Fiji and given Fiji better connectivity to international hubs

Jetstar Airways is fully owned by Qantas Airlines Limited and the airline’s recent establishment of business in NZ reportedly prompted Air NZ and Pacific Blue to respond quickly. The arrival of Jetstar airways is expected to draw competition with the National Carrier, Air Pacific.