Travelers to and from Labasa can look forward to an enhanced experience as the Labasa Airport upgrade project moves forward, with a target completion date looming despite some recent adjustments. This was highlighted by Mesake Nawari, the CEO of Fiji Airports Ltd, during a presentation on the company’s 2022 annual report to the Standing Committee of Foreign Affairs and Defence.
The total investment in this substantial upgrade amounts to $18.6 million, primarily funded by Fiji Airports, with the World Bank contributing mainly to other areas of improvement. Nawari emphasized the importance of these upgrades as they are designed to accommodate a shift toward larger ATR aircraft and an increasing number of international travelers carrying heavy luggage.
He noted that while the initial completion date for the first stage of upgrades was set for the end of June next year, additional requests have emerged post-groundbreaking that might extend the timeline by a few months. These additions include improvements to the car park, provisions for rental vehicles, and establishing commercial amenities to enhance passenger comfort in Labasa’s climate.
The conversation also extended to Savusavu, where Nawari acknowledged the town’s growth and previous terminal improvements but indicated limitations with the existing runway. Plans for a new Savusavu airport site are being discussed as part of the Na Vualiku Tourism Development project, which aims to uplift tourism infrastructure in Fiji and is partially funded by the World Bank.
In conjunction with the substantial upgrades at Labasa, previous articles emphasized the commitment of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation to enhance both Labasa and Savusavu airports, aligning with broad efforts to rejuvenate Fiji’s tourism infrastructure. As these developments unfold, there is a growing optimism regarding the positive impact they will have on travel experiences, local economies, and the strengthening of Fiji’s position as a tourism destination.
The comprehensive efforts being undertaken signal a proactive approach to modernizing Fiji’s aviation infrastructure and fostering economic growth, demonstrating hope for a vibrant future in terms of travel and tourism in the region.
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