Fiji Airports has entered into a significant contract with Rapiscan Systems to supply four new Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) machines for Nadi International Airport, valued at $10 million. This initiative is part of an ongoing commitment by Fiji Airports to enhance its infrastructure and improve the overall passenger experience.
According to Fiji Airports CEO Mesake Nawari, these new machines will replace three aging HBS units, which have been prone to downtime and maintenance issues due to their outdated design. Nawari emphasized that the HBS equipment is critical to the efficiency of operations at Nadi Airport, as it directly impacts the handling of outbound passengers’ baggage.
Nawari explained that the upgrade aligns with the Nadi International Airport Master Plan, which aims to replace worn-out infrastructure to facilitate better service delivery. The upcoming HBS machines will meet ECAC Standard 3 and TSA 7.2 compliance standards, ensuring they are equipped with the latest safety and efficiency features.
The project’s rollout will occur in two stages. The first stage will see the primary screening machine, TX1, replaced by November this year, while the remainder will be addressed in the second stage, with installations expected to be required until 2027. Rapiscan Manager Sales, Matthew Wright, expressed enthusiasm about delivering this vital project and highlighted that the contract also includes training for local staff and the maintenance team.
This development follows Fiji Airports’ investment in additional infrastructure, exemplified by a previous $10.4 million agreement to install six new passenger boarding aerobridges, an initiative aimed at addressing aging facilities and improving operational efficiency to accommodate future passenger demands.
The strategic investments in Nadi International Airport reflect a broader commitment to enhancing Fiji’s aviation sector, promising improvements in passenger satisfaction and operational efficacy. As these upgrades are implemented, they are expected to stimulate economic growth and bolster Fiji’s position as a key destination in the aviation landscape.
The outlook remains optimistic for the future of Nadi International Airport as it continues to evolve and meet the growing needs of international travelers while enhancing the travel experience.
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