Fiji Airports is facing financial challenges as it seeks to enhance its infrastructure, particularly at government-owned airports like Labasa Airport. According to Mesake Nawari, the CEO of Fiji Airports, the only profitable facility under their management is Nadi International Airport, which restricts the available funding for much-needed improvements across the other 14 airports, including Labasa.
Nawari expressed concerns regarding the lack of “free capital” to support an ambitious 25-year infrastructure development program aimed at upgrading these facilities. His comments come in response to inquiries about the delays in the Labasa Airport development project.
In a positive development, a temporary terminal at Labasa Airport opened recently—one week ahead of schedule—thanks to extended working hours during construction. This temporary terminal, as part of an $8 million initiative, has a seating capacity of 70 to accommodate passengers while currently serving an average of 200 daily travelers. To mitigate potential congestion caused by limited seating, additional temporary structures have been erected outside the terminal.
Looking ahead, plans are already underway for a permanent terminal that will increase the seating capacity to 138 and introduce a separate arrivals hall. Construction of this new facility is set to begin soon and is expected to be completed in approximately 18 months.
The upgrades at Labasa Airport have been long overdue, with delays spanning decades due to funding issues and disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these recent advancements mark a hopeful step towards modernizing Fiji’s airport infrastructure. Improved facilities are anticipated to enhance the travel experience for both residents and tourists, with additional potential to stimulate local economies and boost tourism—an essential sector for Fiji’s growth.
In summary, while Fiji Airports faces financial constraints, the ongoing developments reflect a commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure. These efforts are expected to yield significant benefits not only for the airlines and travelers but also for the broader economic outlook in Fiji as the country invests in its transportation network.
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