The closure of Labasa Airport for six weeks has sparked discussions among local stakeholders. Labasa Town Council chair, Paul Jaduram, indicated that there was only one official meeting held with two staff members from Fiji Airports regarding the airport’s temporary shutdown. This meeting took place at the Commissioner Northern’s Office and included input from the Labasa Chambers of Commerce, specifically its president, Vinesh Dayal, who could not be reached for an interview by the time of this report.
Businesswoman Amelia Simmons, who also attended the meeting, acknowledged the necessity of the closure, emphasizing the importance of safety in ensuring that the runway can accommodate ATR 72 aircraft. She encouraged local business owners to plan ahead for the airport’s temporary closure, which is scheduled from February 16 to March 27, 2026.
Fiji Airports released a statement asserting that consultations had been conducted with various stakeholders, including the Commissioner Northern’s Office, the Labasa Chamber of Commerce, businesses in Labasa, and the Savusavu Tourism Association. The impending closure will allow for major runway strengthening works funded by the World Bank under the Na Vualiku Project. The enhancements aim to improve the runway’s pavement classification, supporting compliance with critical safety and operational standards. This initiative is also expected to reduce pavement fatigue, extend the runway’s lifespan, and facilitate more reliable and safer flight operations.
Additionally, Fiji Airports confirmed they are collaborating with airline partners and transport stakeholders to arrange alternative travel options for passengers during the closure, ensuring that the impact on the community and travelers is minimized. These efforts highlight a proactive approach to managing the upcoming disruption while prioritizing safety and operational efficiency.
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