Fiji Airways has confirmed that an 81-year old female guest on its Auckland-Suva service this morning started having medical issues soon after boarding the aircraft.

Airport Paramedics were called in to assist the passenger, who was then transferred back to the terminal.

Airport paramedics, security, police personnel and customs personnel were all on hand to assist.

Fiji Airways was later advised that the passenger unfortunately passed away.

The airline says the matter is now with Auckland Police. The flight operated without further incident.