Alternative plans have been put in place to cater for the travelling public and the business community to the Northern Division with the temporary closure of the Labasa Airport next month.
Fiji Airports has confirmed that Fiji Airways’ domestic carrier Fiji Link will operate 44 additional flights to and from Savusavu Airport during this period, while Northern Air will operate two daily flights on the same Savusavu route.
It has also confirmed that normal bus services would operate as usual, and passengers with direct hotel bookings in the North will receive minibus pick-up schedules.
The timetables and route information for that service will be shared through Fiji Airports’ official channels and social media platforms once finalised.
Fiji Airports chief executive officer Mesake Nawari said the decision to temporarily close the Labasa Airport was not taken lightly but was necessary because of the nature of the upgrade works.
“These runway upgrades are vital to addressing structural issues and ensuring ongoing compliance with international aviation safety standards,” Mr Nawari said in a statement yesterday.
“We remain committed to maintaining air connectivity for Vanua Levu during this period and thank the public for their patience and cooperation as we carry out these essential works.”
The airport upgrade works is being delivered with funding from the Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu – Na Vualiku Project, supported by the World Bank.
Mr Nawari said those upgrades formed part of Fiji Airports’ long-term infrastructure improvement program, and supported their broader vision of becoming a world-class aviation hub in the Blue Pacific.
“The organisation is committed to delivering safe, reliable and welcoming travel experiences across its networks.
“This is an investment in the future of the Northern Division.
“Carrying out these works will help mitigate unplanned disruptions in the future.”
Mr Nawari said they were committed to the continued development and enhancement of its national airport network in support of the country’s economic and regional connectivity objectives.
Meanwhile, Fiji Airways has confirmed that the 44 flights are in addition to its existing Savusavu flights.
“Please note that Fiji Airways currently operates four scheduled daily flights between Nadi and Savusavu, and three scheduled weekly flights between Suva and Savusavu,” a Fiji Airways spokesperson said in response to questions sent by this newspaper.
“The 44 flights referenced by Fiji Airports are additional supplementary services and are in addition to the existing Savusavu flight schedule.”
The Labasa Airport will be temporarily closed from February 16 to March 27 this year to facilitate critical runway pavement strengthening to ensure long-term safety, structural integrity and continued compliance with international aviation standards.
A Fiji Link aircraft parked on the apron at the Labasa Airport. Picture: FIJI AIRPORTS
