After I'd posted this, I came across an article confirming the addition of the A350-900's to the NAN - SFO/YVR routes. The acquisition was slated to be completed by the end of 3rd quarter '23. I'm not certain how reliable the dates will be and would be wary of counting on the delivery dates to hold for the first few weeks/months.

I was comfortable grabbing up AA J award flights to/from NAN in February-March 2024 though. Planning five days in Fiji followed by another award flight NAN-SYD. Spend 2-3 weeks Down Under. Also booked award tickets back in reverse, just to have a sure way to get back. Will stop in NAN and visit a different Fiji island for a few days, if that ends up the best option. And plenty of time in the interim to continue to stalk for direct SYD-LAX or AKL-LAX awards back to LAX.

Hoping the A350-900's actually happen on SFO and YVR. Counting on them or will likely not make the Trip. Recently Fiji Airways seems to have eliminated new award availability in J to/from LAX-NAN (at least on AA). Awards have been limited to the less desirable hard products on the SFO/YVR routes. 2024 availability has dried up quickly on the new A350-900's routes also. Not sure if that's because savvy flyers have gotten wind of it or just the natural search for flights in the southern hemisphere summer. There's been no discussion of the new A350-900 development on any of blogs I occasionally take a look at.

It's surprising there's scarcity all the way through to SYD on paid Fiji tickets. Usually, it's ample and quite reasonably priced. Even partner award availability is fairly easy to find if booked far enough in advance.