Flying business class to a holiday destination is a bucket-list aspiration for many Australians, but the steep costs of long-haul flights often deter travellers. However, savvy flyers can now indulge in a premium experience without venturing far, thanks to airlines like Fiji Airways offering top-tier services on shorter routes closer to home.
APEX Accolades Elevate Fiji Airways
In a significant achievement, Fiji Airways was honoured with the APEX World Class Airline award for 2026, distinguishing it as the smallest airline by fleet size to receive this recognition and the sole carrier in Oceania to be acknowledged. Additionally, the airline secured the APEX Innovation Award for Best Inflight Food/Beverage for 2026, following the launch of its innovative Pacific Rim menu. These accolades highlight Fiji Airways' commitment to excellence, making it an ideal time for Australians to experience its business class offerings on routes such as the five-hour flight from Melbourne to Nadi.
Spacious and Functional Seating
The benefits of business class commence well before boarding, with priority check-in and access to the Qantas Lounge for Fiji Airways guests, ensuring a seamless start to the journey. Upon boarding, passengers are immediately struck by the spacious and thoughtfully designed seats. Key features include a reading light positioned over the shoulder for optimal illumination, shallow compartments for easy access to personal items, and a tray table that extends from the front rather than the side, eliminating the hassle of maneuvering during meals.
Contrary to assumptions that shorter flights might lack full recline capabilities, Fiji Airways' business class seats impressively convert to lie-flat positions. This allows travellers to achieve comfortable sleeping postures or select from upright, lounge, or sleeping modes via intuitive controls, enhancing relaxation on the journey.
Gourmet Dining and Beverage Selection
The culinary experience is a standout aspect of Fiji Airways business class. Upon settling into their seats, passengers are greeted with a choice of juice, sparkling rosé, or champagne, accompanied by a warm towel. A pre-placed dining menu enables flight attendants to promptly take orders for a three-course meal, including beverages, allowing guests to unwind without frequent menu consultations.
Sample menus feature a range of delectable options. For instance, a vegetarian selection might include pumpkin, carrot, and ginger soup as a starter, roasted mushroom rigatoni as a main, and lime cheesecake with yuzu and ginger for dessert, paired with a glass of Chardonnay. Non-vegetarian choices encompass dishes like lemongrass beef with coriander basil salad, smoked salmon, barramundi with potato puree, and Fijian chicken curry. Throughout the flight, complimentary snacks such as bar nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate are offered, ensuring sustained satisfaction.
Breakfast Excellence and In-Flight Entertainment
For early morning departures, such as the 8am flight from Fiji, the breakfast menu shines with light and fresh offerings. Options include Bon Cafe gourmet coffee, specialty teas, cold-pressed juices, and soft drinks. Food selections range from an avocado and Fijian forest honey smoothie to starters like fresh fruit or sweet coconut quinoa, with mains featuring crab potato omelette, poached eggs with avocado and feta, or buttermilk pancakes with turmeric maple syrup. A pastry basket with hand-churned butter complements the meal.
Entertainment is provided on a 15.4-inch screen, offering endless content to enjoy with a glass of wine in hand, making the flight both relaxing and engaging.
Premier Airport Service in Nadi
Fiji Airways enhances the travel experience with its FJ Premier Service at Nadi International Airport, designed for those seeking effortless airport navigation. This service includes expedited processing, priority check-in, exclusive lounge access, and personal escort to the boarding gate. Available at $170 per person for departure or arrival (excluding lounge access) or $270 including lounge access, it adds a layer of convenience, particularly for early flights. Business class passengers automatically receive lounge access at Nadi airport, further elevating the journey.
Pricing and Availability
As of publication, business-class flights from Sydney to Nadi in March start at approximately $1041.19 for a one-way trip, with return fares beginning around $1115.59 and ranging up to $1900, offering a competitive option for luxury travel to Fiji.
