The police have categorically refuted allegations regarding the usage of the privately owned Skyward Pinehills airstrip situated in Namulomulo, near Nadi. Acting Police Commissioner Mesake Waqa emphasized, “We have not used the airstrip or have ever requested to use this airstrip at any time,” reaffirming that police operations exclusively rely on Nadi and Nausori airports.
Compounding the topic, a recent government announcement declared the closure of the Skyward Pinehills airstrip until the owners acquire the necessary authorization from the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF). Located approximately 8.5 kilometers southeast of Nadi International Airport, the airstrip was constructed in 2019 for private recreational aviation purposes.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation clarified that the airstrip’s owners need to seek formal registration to ensure compliance with aviation regulations. Initial concerns regarding the airstrip’s proximity to Nadi International Airport were addressed; following a technical assessment, limited daytime use was conditionally approved in January 2020. However, due to incomplete registration requirements and delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the airstrip has yet to be registered or utilized for any aircraft operations.
The Ministry has reassured the public that there are no aviation safety risks related to the current status of the airstrip, which will remain closed to aircraft until all registration stipulations are met, and approval is granted by CAAF. This clarity aims to ensure safety and regulation compliance within Fiji’s aviation sector, providing a positive outlook for future developments that may allow for greater utilization of private airstrips once all requirements are fulfilled.
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