Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officially opened the advanced Air Laucala Hangar at Nadi International Airport yesterday. Recognized as one of Fiji’s most sophisticated hangars, this multi-million dollar facility is designed to accommodate high-end travelers visiting Laucala Island Resort for vacations.
The investment reflects a collaborative effort among the resort’s owner, the government, and local landowners to enhance guest services and fulfill national development objectives. During the inauguration, the Prime Minister expressed the Coalition Government’s gratitude for this significant private investment, emphasizing its alignment with international standards.
“This state-of-the-art facility not only showcases our dedication to improving aviation capabilities and premium guest services but also symbolizes our nation’s advancement and innovation,” remarked the Prime Minister. He stated that the Air Laucala Hangar embodies Fiji’s aspiration to excel in aviation within the Pacific region.
“This facility will improve our capacity to maintain and service aircraft, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of our aviation operations,” he added. Furthermore, the hangar is expected to generate multiple job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and provide training and skill development to empower the workforce with necessary expertise in the aviation sector.
Rabuka expressed his appreciation to all contributors to the project, including the landowners in Nadi and Laucala Island. The hangar aims to offer young engineers and technicians the chance to gain practical experience with modern technologies, nurturing a new generation of skilled professionals for the aviation industry.
On behalf of the owner, Kevin Abramowicz, Director for Laucala Island Resort and Air Laucala, noted that the concept for the hangar originated from the late Dietrich Mateschitz, the resort’s former owner. He explained that the facility would ensure smooth transit for guests, either from international carriers or private jets to Air Laucala’s aircraft.
“Apart from reducing transit times and enhancing comfort for visitors in the lounge, the hangar is designed to provide an excellent workspace for our Air Laucala fleet management team, close to industry experts at Nadi International Airport,” he said. Abramowicz added that Mark Mateschitz, the current owner, is dedicated to Fiji and passionate about continuing his father’s legacy in developing both the north and the country as a whole.