Flight Time from LAX to Fiji: Everything You Need to Know

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Planning a trip to Fiji from Los Angeles? One of the first questions travelers ask is how long the flight actually takes. Here’s what you need to know about the flight time from LAX to Fiji’s main international airport.

Direct Flight Time: LAX to Nadi

The direct flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Nadi International Airport (NAN) in Fiji takes approximately 10 to 10.5 hours.

This is based on Fiji Airways’ direct service, which is the primary carrier operating this route. The actual flight time can vary slightly depending on:

  • Wind conditions and jet streams
  • The specific flight path taken that day
  • Weather patterns

Most flights depart LAX late in the evening (around 11:45 PM) and arrive in Nadi in the early morning, two days later due to crossing the International Date Line.

Why You Lose a Day

Here’s something that catches many first-time Fiji travelers off guard: when you fly from LAX to Fiji, you cross the International Date Line. This means:

  • You depart LAX on Monday night
  • You arrive in Fiji on Wednesday morning (you skip Tuesday entirely)
  • The good news? You gain that day back on your return flight

Airlines Flying LAX to Fiji

Fiji Airways is the main carrier offering direct flights between LAX and Nadi. They operate Airbus A350-900 aircraft on this route, which are modern, comfortable planes designed for long-haul travel.

Other airlines may offer connecting flights through cities like Sydney, Auckland, or Honolulu, but these will significantly increase your total travel time.

What to Expect on the Flight

The 10-hour flight time may sound daunting, but Fiji Airways makes it manageable:

  • Overnight departure: Most flights leave late evening, allowing you to sleep through much of the journey
  • In-flight entertainment: Movies, TV shows, and flight maps are included
  • Meals included: You’ll receive dinner after takeoff and breakfast before landing
  • Onboard camera: The A350-900 features cameras that let you watch the landing from the flight map—a unique feature not available on many airlines

For a detailed breakdown of the entire Fiji Airways experience from LAX, including check-in tips, what to pack, and navigating LAX, read my complete guide to flying Fiji Airways from LAX.

Best Time to Book

Flight times remain consistent year-round, but booking early can save you money. Fiji Airways typically offers:

  • Best prices when booking 3-6 months in advance
  • Occasional sales during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October)
  • Stopover deals that let you spend up to 48 hours in Fiji at no extra charge if continuing to Australia or New Zealand

Tips for the 10-Hour Flight

Before the Flight:

  • Arrive at LAX early—the Fiji Airways gate is a long walk from security (Gate 202 in the Tom Bradley International Terminal)
  • Grab food before heading to the gate, as options are limited in that area
  • Bring a good travel pillow (I recommend the Turtl Travel Pillow over standard U-shaped ones)

During the Flight:

  • Set your watch to Fiji time to start adjusting
  • Stay hydrated throughout the flight
  • Get up and walk around periodically
  • Download entertainment to your device as backup

Packing Essentials:

  • Fiji Airways has a strict 15 lb (7 kg) carry-on limit and they will weigh it
  • Pack a pen for immigration forms
  • Bring your own headphones if you’re picky about quality
  • Layer your clothing—plane temperatures vary

Using Fiji as a Stopover

One of the best-kept secrets about this route: Fiji Airways allows a stopover in Fiji for up to 48 hours without additional taxes if you’re continuing to Australia or New Zealand. You must book both flights together, but this is a fantastic way to break up your journey and experience Fiji before heading further into the South Pacific.

Getting to LAX from San Diego

If you’re based in San Diego like me, I strongly recommend taking the Pacific Surfliner train and FlyAway bus rather than driving. For $38 one way, you get a stress-free three-hour journey with ocean views, no parking hassles, and you arrive relaxed and ready for your flight. Check out my full LAX experience guide linked above for details on this route.

Is 10 Hours Really That Long?

For a direct flight to the South Pacific, 10 hours is actually quite reasonable. Compare this to:

  • LAX to Sydney: 14-15 hours
  • LAX to Auckland: 12-13 hours
  • LAX to Tokyo: 11-12 hours

The overnight timing works in your favor. Most travelers find they can sleep for 5-7 hours of the flight, watch a movie or two, have meals, and arrive in Fiji feeling surprisingly refreshed.

Bottom Line

The flight time from LAX to Fiji is approximately 10 to 10.5 hours direct on Fiji Airways. While it’s a long-haul flight, the overnight schedule, included amenities, and friendly Fiji Airways crew make it manageable even for anxious travelers.

Ready to start planning your Fiji escape? The hardest part is deciding whether to stay in Fiji or use it as a stopover to Australia or New Zealand—either way, you’re in for an incredible South Pacific adventure.

Need help planning your Fiji journey? As a travel advisor specializing in cruise and Pacific travel, I can help you navigate flight options, accommodation choices, and create an itinerary that matches your travel style. Contact me to start planning your relaxed Fiji escape.

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