What's Happening?
Fiji Airways has announced the appointment of Paul Scurrah as its new managing director and chief executive officer, effective November 1, 2025. Scurrah brings over two decades of executive experience
in aviation, transport, logistics, and tourism. His leadership is marked by a history of driving cultural transformation and delivering stakeholder value. Previously, Scurrah served as CEO of Pacific National, where he led a transformation focused on operational excellence and safety innovation. He also held the CEO position at Virgin Australia, where he navigated the airline through the COVID-19 pandemic, preserving core routes and jobs. Scurrah's career includes roles at Queensland Rail and DP World Australia, and he was a founding executive at Rex Airlines. His leadership style is characterized by integrity, resilience, and strategic clarity.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Paul Scurrah as CEO of Fiji Airways is significant as it comes at a time when the airline is poised for strategic growth and expansion. Under the leadership of outgoing CEO Andre Viljoen, Fiji Airways achieved significant milestones, including a rise in global rankings and fleet expansion. Scurrah's experience in leading complex organizations and his track record in operational excellence are expected to guide Fiji Airways through the dynamic challenges of global aviation. His leadership could further enhance the airline's reputation and financial performance, benefiting stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the broader aviation industry.
What's Next?
Under Scurrah's leadership, Fiji Airways is expected to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation. The airline aims to maintain its strong financial discipline and customer excellence while expanding its regional and international presence. Scurrah's focus on operational excellence and safety innovation will likely drive further investments in new technologies and customer partnerships. The transition is expected to be smooth, with outgoing CEO Andre Viljoen remaining on the board to ensure continuity. The airline's strategic plans may include further fleet expansion and enhanced training facilities, positioning it as a leader in the Pacific aviation market.
Beyond the Headlines
Scurrah's appointment highlights the importance of leadership in navigating the complexities of the aviation industry. His ability to foster high-performance cultures and deliver measurable results in challenging environments could set a precedent for other airlines facing similar challenges. The focus on safety and operational excellence may also influence industry standards, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Additionally, the strategic expansion of Fiji Airways under Scurrah's leadership could have broader economic implications for the region, boosting tourism and trade.
