The upgrade of the runway pavement at Rotuma Airport has been completed ahead of schedule. Mesake Nawari, Chief Executive of Fiji Airports, praised the contractors, Flame Tree Development (Fiji) Pte Ltd, for their excellent execution of the project, which included vital safety enhancements.
Recently, the Fiji Airports projects team visited Rotuma to observe the completed works and receive the official handover from the contractors. Nawari emphasized the importance of maintaining the runway, stating, “The runway pavement maintenance work is essential in our operations, and we acknowledge the contractors for completing the maintenance ahead of time.” He also expressed gratitude to customers and stakeholders for their support during the two-week maintenance period, noting that flight operations remained unaffected.
Additionally, Nawari recognized the presence of the Rotuma Island Council, the seven chiefs, and traditional owners who attended the completion ceremony. The upgrade included landslip remediation, resealing the runway shoulders, and upgrading fencing. Nawari pointed out that the project timeline was developed in consultation with stakeholders before it began.
Earlier this year, Fiji Airports announced a $10 million investment in runway maintenance for five of its 14 outer island stations, including Labasa, Rotuma, Savusavu, Lakeba, and Matei (Taveuni). Nawari stated this initiative reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining government-owned airports on the outer islands. He mentioned ongoing discussions with the government for additional funding to enhance facilities at outer island airports and Nausori.
The scheduled maintenance at the five airports is fully financed by Fiji Airports. Rotuma Airport is one of 14 airports owned by the Fijian government and managed by Fiji Airports. Gagaj Manav, Chairman of the Rotuma Island Council, expressed appreciation for the completed runway work. Following briefings on airport operations, the council members were given a tour of the runway, apron, and taxiway.