Fiji Airports is grappling with financial difficulties as it works to upgrade infrastructure for its government-owned airports, particularly Labasa Airport. The CEO, Mesake Nawari, indicated that Nadi International Airport is the only profitable facility among the 14 airports managed by the organization, which restricts funding for critical improvements needed at the other airports.

Nawari highlighted the lack of “free capital” available to finance an ambitious 25-year infrastructure development program aimed at enhancing the overall condition of these airports. His remarks follow questions about delays in the development of Labasa Airport, which is one of the facilities under Fiji Airports.

In a recent positive development, a temporary terminal at Labasa Airport was opened a week ahead of schedule, thanks to extended working hours during its construction. This facility, meant to accommodate 70 departing passengers, comes amid a daily average traffic of around 200 passengers at the airport. To handle potential congestion, additional temporary structures have been set up outside the terminal.

The temporary terminal is part of a larger $8 million initiative, which will pave the way for a new permanent terminal designed to improve passenger services. This permanent structure is projected to feature a seating capacity of 138 and include a separate arrivals area. Construction is expected to begin shortly and take approximately 18 months to complete.

The upgrades at Labasa Airport represent a much-needed modernization effort that has faced numerous hurdles over the years, primarily due to funding constraints and disruptions linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the recent developments signal a hopeful trajectory towards modernizing airport facilities in Fiji, potentially enhancing the travel experience for both residents and tourists.

These improvements not only aim to elevate passenger services at Labasa Airport but also hold promise for boosting local economies through increased tourism. As Fiji Airports navigates its financial challenges and commits to infrastructure enhancement, there is optimism that these efforts will lead to a resilient aviation sector and stronger economic prospects in the region.