Fiji Airports has announced that its only profitable airport, Nadi International Airport, is facing challenges in financing infrastructure upgrades for other government-owned airports. Mesake Nawari, the CEO of Fiji Airports, expressed concerns that the upcoming extensive infrastructure development program, spanning 25 years, will not have “free capital” available for these airports.

The statement comes amid questions surrounding delays in the development of Labasa Airport, one of the 14 government-owned airports managed by Fiji Airports. Nadi Airport remains the sole airport generating profit, which makes it difficult for Fiji Airports to allocate necessary resources for the renovation of its other facilities.

On a positive note, Labasa Airport recently opened a temporary terminal a week ahead of schedule as part of an $8 million development project planned to enhance its airport services. This temporary facility will operate until a permanent terminal, which aims to increase seating capacity from 70 to 138 for departing passengers and include a separate arrivals hall, is completed in approximately 18 months.

Despite potential congestion at the temporary terminal due to limited seating, Fiji Airports has taken steps to manage passenger flow, including setting up temporary sheds outside to accommodate overflow. Nawari’s remarks hint at a hopeful vision for Labasa Airport’s future infrastructure, which reflects a pivotal step towards modernizing air travel in Fiji and could ultimately boost tourism and local economies.

Overall, while challenges remain, the commitment to upgrading Fiji’s airport infrastructure provides a positive outlook for the country’s transportation network.