Vunilagi has been recognized as a potential entry point for air travel in Vanua Levu, according to sources within the aviation sector. The offer of land for the construction of a new airport at Vunilagi by Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the paramount chief of Cakaudrove and Parliament Speaker, has sparked interest among business leaders who are optimistic about the project’s fruition.
Avikash Pillay, president of the Savusavu Chamber of Commerce, is one of several business leaders who’s banking on the development. “Vunilagi is roughly a 30-minute drive from Savusavu Town and offers expansive flat land,” he stated. He pointed out that the current Savusavu Airport runway lacks the capacity for larger aircraft, which poses challenges for the tourism sector.
As the foremost tourist destination in the Northern Division, a larger airport could attract more visitors. Pillay noted that government officials are also exploring the feasibility of an airport in Vunilagi.
In an alternative proposal, last year Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka mentioned Nasarawaqa in Bua as a second potential location for an international airport. Following the initiation of the NaVualiku tourism development project, the World Bank has identified additional possible sites, according to Gavoka.
“We recognize the community’s demand for an international airport, and we are actively reviewing options,” Mr. Gavoka commented. “An announcement will be made by the end of the year.”