$10.4m Deal for New Aerobridges

Fiji Airports (FA) has signed a $10.4 million contract with Australian- based company RATE to equip Nadi International Airport with six new passenger boarding aerobridges.

This investment aims to replace aging infrastructure, accommodate future passenger demands, and enhance the overall passenger experience.

FA chief executive officer Mesake Nawari highlighted the significance of this upgrade.

"As part of our terminal expansion and master plan, Fiji Airports has signed a $10.4 million contract for six aerobridges, two new aerobridges to be installed and four to replace the existing ones at the apron," Mr Nawari said.

"This is particularly important to properly accommodate wide body aircraft like the A350s."

The addition of three new aerobridges (Gates 1, 2 A, and 2 B) will allow the airport to optimally utilise the parking stands available on the apron.

"This marks a significant milestone for the airport with two new aerobridges on the apron," he said.

"The aerobridges will enable passengers to board and deplane aircraft directly from the terminal, providing a convenient and efficient boarding process," Mr Nawari explained.

Each aerobridge, costing approximately $1.74 million, will take at least seven months to manufacture.

Installation is scheduled to begin next year, with the first aerobridges expected to be commissioned in the first half of 2025.

Mr Nawari noted that this investment is part of Fiji Airports' 25th anniversary plans.

Currently, Nadi International Airport has five operational passenger boarding aerobridges.

The addition of the six new aerobridges will increase the total number of operational aerobridges to eight, including three entirely new ones.

- Fiji Airports