Upgrades to the runway at Rotuma Airport have been completed ahead of schedule. Mesake Nawari, the Chief Executive of Fiji Airports, praised the work done by contractors Flame Tree Development (Fiji) Pte Ltd, highlighting their effective execution of the upgrades which enhanced safety features on the runway.
Nawari noted that the Fiji Airports projects team recently visited the island to oversee the project’s completion and the official handover from the contractors. He emphasized the importance of runway maintenance for their operations and expressed gratitude to the contractors for completing the work ahead of time. Nawari also thanked customers and stakeholders for their support during the two-week maintenance period, which did not disrupt bi-weekly flight operations.
The upgrade work at Rotuma Airport involved addressing landslips, resealing the runway shoulder, and upgrading the airport’s fencing. Nawari mentioned that the project timeline was developed in consultation with stakeholders before the work began.
Earlier this year, Fiji Airports announced a $10 million investment for runway maintenance projects at five of its 14 outer island stations, including Rotuma. Nawari indicated that this investment reflects the organization’s commitment to maintaining government-owned airports in outer island locations.
Additionally, he shared that Fiji Airports will continue discussions with the Government for funding to improve facilities at outer island airports and Nausori. All scheduled maintenance work at the five airports is fully funded by Fiji Airports.
Rotuma Island Council Chairman Gagaj Manav expressed gratitude to Fiji Airports and the contractors for their work on the runway. He also mentioned the Council’s appreciation for being able to meet the team responsible for the upgrades. Following a brief introduction to airport operations and business, the seven district chiefs of the Rotuma Island Council were given a tour of the runway, apron, and taxiway.