Alternative arrangements are being implemented to accommodate travelers and the business community during the temporary closure of Labasa Airport next month. Fiji Airports has announced that Fiji Airways’ domestic subsidiary, Fiji Link, will enhance connectivity by operating an additional 44 flights to and from Savusavu Airport during this period. In addition, Northern Air will maintain two daily flights on the same Savusavu route to ensure continued travel options.
Normal bus services will remain operational, and passengers with direct hotel bookings in the North will benefit from scheduled minibus pickups. Details regarding timetables and routes for these services will be shared via Fiji Airports’ official channels and social media once finalized.
Fiji Airports’ CEO, Mesake Nawari, emphasized that the decision to close Labasa Airport was difficult but essential for conducting critical runway upgrades. He noted that these improvements are crucial for addressing structural issues and ensuring compliance with international aviation safety standards.
“This is an investment in the future of the Northern Division,” Nawari stated in a recent announcement. “The upgrade works will not only enhance the current infrastructure but also help mitigate unplanned disruptions in the future.” The project is funded by the Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu, supported by the World Bank, and is part of Fiji Airports’ long-term vision to establish itself as a world-class aviation hub in the Blue Pacific.
Moreover, Fiji Airways has confirmed that the additional 44 flights are supplementary to the existing schedules, which include four daily flights between Nadi and Savusavu and three weekly flights between Suva and Savusavu.
Labasa Airport will be temporarily closed from February 16 to March 27 to facilitate essential runway strengthening, ensuring long-term safety and compliance with international standards. This upgrade not only reflects the ongoing commitment to improve air travel standards but also serves to bolster the overall economic development in the region. The support from the community during this upgrade phase is crucial for a smoother travel experience moving forward.
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