Connecting Tourism and Aviation
Global Expert Addresses Pacific Tourism Ministers on Regional Connectivity
In a step toward enhancing regional collaboration, UNSW Sydney's School of Aviation facilitated a keynote address by prominent aviation leader James Hogan AO at the Pacific Islands Tourism Ministers' Forum held in Vava'u, Tonga from October 20-22, 2025.
Hogan, Chairman of Knighthood Global Limited, delivered a compelling presentation to the Council of Tourism Ministers on the theme "Connecting Tourism and Aviation," emphasising the vital link between air connectivity and economic prosperity across Pacific Island nations.
In his address, Hogan highlighted aviation's critical role as both an economic enabler and a cornerstone of national strategic planning. Drawing on real-world case studies and successful airline models, he demonstrated how building fit-for-purpose networks with appropriate fleet configurations can unlock substantial economic potential.
"Connectivity is not just about flights, but about prosperity, resilience and unity across the Pacific," Hogan stated in his closing remarks.
The keynote explored how improved aviation infrastructure drives foreign investment, business growth, job creation, and inbound tourism—all essential components for the prosperity of Pacific Island communities. Hogan also outlined strategies for network expansion, including codeshares and strategic partnerships, showing how underserved markets can be transformed through enhanced connectivity.
A key theme of the presentation was the importance of a cohesive regional strategy that brings together private enterprise, aviation, tourism operators, hotels, and entertainment venues. Hogan emphasised that aligning these sectors' objectives would deliver significant benefits to local economies and communities across the South Pacific Islands.
The keynote appearance reflects a broader partnership between the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) and UNSW Sydney's School of Aviation, aimed at addressing aviation challenges in the region through collaborative stakeholder engagement.
"Strengthening this partnership is essential if we are to unlock the full potential of Pacific Island nations and ensure our people continue to thrive," said SPTO Chief Executive Officer Chris Cocker. "Tourism and aviation are inseparable in the Pacific. Without reliable air connectivity, our islands remain isolated—but with it, we open pathways to opportunity, investment, and shared prosperity."
The initiative forms part of the School of Aviation's thought leadership program, which drives collaborative projects designed to create meaningful impact and improve regional connectivity.
The presentation by James Hogan created impact by opening the eyes of many of the ministers present about the nexus of aviation and tourism. It also set the scene strongly for the in-person panel discussion that took place immediately after, resulting in a determination by the Board to include more aviation expertise at future tourism events. It also helped drive the endorsement by the Council of Ministers of a Tourism Aviation Strategy.
SPTO, established in 1983 as the Tourism Council of the South Pacific, serves as the region's mandated agency for tourism marketing and development. The organization promotes responsible and resilient tourism strategies to ensure long-term sustainable growth across the Pacific, working with both government and private sector members.
The partnership between SPTO and UNSW Sydney aims to foster a safe, accessible, and sustainable aviation industry in the Pacific, ultimately enhancing connectivity, tourism, and progress for all throughout the region.
The presentation that accompanied James Hogan’s keynote can be accessed on the Knighthood Global website via this link: