Vunilagi a Possible North Port

Vunilagi has been identified as a possible port of entry in Vanua Levu, according to aviation insiders.

Since the paramount chief of Cakaudrove and Parliament Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu offered land for the construction of a new airport at Vunilagi, many business people hope this could turn into reality.

Savusavu Chamber of Commerce president Avikash Pillay is among many business leaders banking on the project.

"Vunilagi is about 30 minutes' drive from Savusavu Town and it's a flat spacious land," Mr Pillay said.

"If you look at our current Savusavu Airport runway, it is impossible for bigger aircraft to land since the land space is small, which continues to be challenge faced by the tourism industry."

As the biggest tourist destination in the Northern Division, a bigger airport would bring in more tourists.

He said Government ministers were also looking into the prospects of developing an airport at Vunilagi.

ALTERNATIVE IN BUA

Last year, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka said Nasarawaqa, Bua, was a second possible site for an international airport.

But since the launch of NaVualiku tourism development project, The World Bank had identified other possible sites, he said.

"As a Government, we are aware of the people's plight for an international airport, and yes we are looking into it," Mr Gavoka said.

"An announcement will be made by end of the year."

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