Runway pavement upgrade projects at Rotuma Airport have been completed ahead of schedule, according to Fiji Airports Chief Executive Mesake Nawari. He praised the contractors, Flame Tree Development (Fiji) Pte Ltd, for their outstanding work on the runway, which has received essential safety enhancements.
Nawari mentioned that the Fiji Airports projects team recently visited the island to see the project completion and witness the official handover from the contractors. He emphasized the critical nature of runway maintenance for operational efficiency and expressed gratitude to the contractors for their timely completion of the work.
He also thanked customers and stakeholders for their unwavering support during the two-week maintenance period, during which bi-weekly flight operations were not disrupted. Nawari recognized the presence of the Rotuma Island Council, seven chiefs, and traditional owners during the unveiling of the upgraded runway.
The upgrade work at Rotuma Airport involved landslip remediation, resealing the runway shoulders, and upgrading the airport fence. Nawari indicated that the project timeline was designed in collaboration with stakeholders prior to starting the project.
Earlier this year, Fiji Airports announced a $10 million investment to carry out runway pavement maintenance projects at five of its 14 outer island stations, including Rotuma. Nawari reiterated the commitment to ongoing maintenance for all outer island airports, reflecting the company’s dedication to managing government-owned airports.
He also mentioned that Fiji Airports would continue discussions with the Government to secure funding for further improvements at outer island airports and Nausori. The maintenance work at the five airports is fully funded by Fiji Airports.
Gagaj Manav, Chairman of the Rotuma Island Council, expressed appreciation to Fiji Airports and the contractors for their efforts on the airport runway, stating gratitude for the improvements made.
Following a brief introduction to airport operations and business, the Rotuma Island Council, including the seven district chiefs, was given a tour of the runway, apron, and taxiway.