Vunilagi has emerged as a potential site for a new airport in Vanua Levu, according to sources within the aviation sector. The initiative gained momentum after Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the paramount chief of Cakaudrove and Speaker of Parliament, offered land for construction. This development has excited many local business leaders about the project’s prospects.
Avikash Pillay, president of the Savusavu Chamber of Commerce, expressed optimism regarding the plan. “Vunilagi is only a 30-minute drive from Savusavu Town, and it has ample flat land,” he explained. He noted that the existing Savusavu Airport runway is too small to accommodate larger aircraft, which poses challenges for the tourism sector. An upgraded airport facility would likely enhance the flow of tourists to the region, which is the largest tourist destination in the Northern Division.
Pillay mentioned that government officials are actively exploring the possibility of establishing an airport at Vunilagi.
In addition to Vunilagi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka previously indicated Nasarawaqa in Bua as another possible location for an international airport. Following the initiation of the NaVualiku tourism development project, the World Bank has identified additional potential sites as well. “We understand the community’s desire for an international airport, and we are currently assessing these options,” Gavoka stated. He assured that an official announcement regarding the airport locations would be made by the end of the year.