Northern airports upgrades to bring lower airfares

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, has revealed that airfares are expected to decrease once airport upgrades in Fiji’s Northern Division are completed.

Mr Gavoka said efforts are underway to enhance facilities at Matei (Taveuni), Labasa, and Savusavu airports with modern upgrades.

He explained that the sustainability of the civil aviation sector depends on higher passenger volumes. “It is a volume-driven civil aviation business,” he said.

Although operating flights is expensive, Mr Gavoka said increased passenger numbers would make airfare reductions viable.

The planned upgrades include the construction of a new airport building and improvements to the runway at Labasa Airport, which would allow larger aircraft, such as the ATR 72, to land and bring in more passengers.

He acknowledged that frequent travellers between Viti Levu and Labasa may face challenges due to a temporary airport closure for maintenance next year.

Airports Fiji Limited (AFL), after consultation with Labasa-based stakeholders, has scheduled a six-week closure from February 16 to March 27 for runway repairs.

“The upgrade is a key safety initiative that will protect passengers and airline crew and ensure safe and reliable aircraft operations across the Northern Division,” Mr Gavoka said.

Other critical infrastructure improvements at Labasa Airport include the installation of remote tower aerodrome flight information systems.

Amelia Simmons, executive member of the Macuata Tourism Association, expressed support for the upgrades at Labasa and Savusavu airports.

She said increasing international visitor arrivals would create more tourism income-generating opportunities.

“As visitor numbers grow, we need to ensure there are ample scenic spots and activities to keep tourists spending more time in the North, contributing to the local economy,” she added.

Mr Gavoka also announced plans for a feasibility study to construct a new airport in Vanua Levu. The study will clarify the need, best location, and design for the proposed airport.

“The new airport, which is a long-term vision, would improve airport services and decentralise infrastructure to other areas in the North,” he said.