Fiji Airports has entered into a $10.4 million agreement with Australian company RATE to install six new passenger boarding aerobridges at Nadi International Airport.
Fiji Airports Chief Executive Mesake Nawari stated that the investment’s objective is to update old infrastructure, meet future passenger needs, enhance passenger experience, and boost operational efficiency at Nadi International Airport.
“As part of our terminal expansion and master plan, Fiji Airports has committed to a $10.4 million contract for six aerobridges. This includes two new aerobridges and four replacements for the current aerobridges at the apron, especially to accommodate widebody aircraft like the A350s,” said Nawari.
The addition of three new passenger aerobridges at Gates 1, 2A, and 2B will help the airport make better use of the parking stands available on the apron.
“This is a major milestone for the airport with the introduction of two new aerobridges on the apron,” he added.
The new aerobridges will allow passengers to board and deplane directly from the terminal and aircraft, ensuring a more convenient and efficient boarding process.
“Each aerobridge costs approximately $1.74 million and will take at least seven months to manufacture,” Nawari explained.
“Installation will start next year, with the first aerobridges expected to be operational in the first half of 2025,” he continued.
Nawari noted that the investment in aerobridges is part of the organization’s 25th-anniversary plans for Nadi International Airport.
Currently, Nadi International Airport has five operational passenger boarding aerobridges. The addition of the six new aerobridges will increase this number to eight, with three being completely new.