This study results from a proposal put forward by the Australian Prime Minister during the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Leaders' meeting in Auckland, New Zealand in August 2003. Pacific Island Forum Leaders agreed to support a Pacific Regional Transport Study (PRTS) covering both aviation and shipping. The major objective of the PRTS was to identify and bring forward for Leaders' consideration, practical recommendations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of air and shipping services. The Study team was required to examine possible regional responses that could involve pooling of scarce regional resources as well as to review issues and make recommendations related to individual Forum island countries.
