A father's passion for aviation has become a family legacy, with his two sons following in his footsteps to proudly represent Fiji Airways in the skies.
For more than four decades, Captain Ilaitia Caucau has dedicated his career to Fiji's national airline, and today, that same passion for flying lives on through his sons, Edwin and Isireli, who have built careers of their own in aviation.
Caucau says he officially joined the airline on 3rd January 1984, and after more than 42 years, he remains proud to be part of the Fiji Airways family.
His son Edwin now serves as a First Officer on Fiji Airways' Airbus A350 and A330 aircraft.
Edwin says aviation has been a lifelong dream, and growing up around aircraft made the decision to become a pilot an easy one.
His younger brother, Isireli, also pursued a career in aviation, beginning as a Twin Otter pilot with Fiji Link before joining Fiji Airways earlier this year as a Cruise Relief Pilot.
The brothers recall that aircraft were always part of their childhood.
From playing with toy planes to watching their father prepare for work, aviation was a constant presence in their lives.
They say watching their father put on his uniform and leave to fly around the world inspired them from a young age and helped shape their ambitions.
For Edwin, one of the most memorable moments of his career was sharing the flight deck with his father.
His first flight alongside Captain Caucau was to Hong Kong, an experience he describes as special and unforgettable.
While proud of his father's achievements as a pilot, Edwin says he is even more grateful for the role he has played as a parent, describing him as the best father in the world.
The Caucau family also regards Fiji Airways as the pinnacle of aviation in Fiji, with the airline representing the ultimate career goal for many aspiring pilots across the country.
Their story highlights dedication, family and a shared passion for flying, showing how a father's love for aviation has inspired the next generation to follow in his footsteps.
