Fiji Airports has commissioned its first state-of-the-art fully electric ambulift at the Nadi International Airport.
Funded through the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Japanese government, the ambulift is anticipated to strengthen the airport manager’s commitment to operational excellence and an inclusive travel experience for all passengers.
The ambulift is designed to safely board and disembark persons with reduced mobility and passengers requiring additional assistance.
Fiji Airport chief executive officer Mesake Nawari said the ambulift commissioning reflected their focus on improving passenger experience through inclusive and sustainable infrastructure.
“This commissioning represents far more than the introduction of new equipment,” Mr Nawari said. “It is about ensuring that every passenger can travel through our airport safely, comfortably and with dignity. The new electric ambulift will strengthen accessibility while also supporting our transition towards cleaner airport operations.”
He said they were building airport facilities that were more inclusive, efficient and prepared for the future needs of Fiji and the wider Pacific.
“As our first fully electric operational vehicle on the airside, the ambulift provides a strong foundation for introducing more sustainable equipment and vehicles as we continue implementing the Fiji Airports Master Plan and progress towards our Net Zero carbon emission target for scopes 1 and 2 by 2030.”
ADB regional director Azusa Sato said the investment demonstrated their commitment to supporting inclusive, resilient and sustainable infrastructure in Fiji and across the Pacific – in partnership with the Japanese government and Fiji Airports.
Japanese ambassador to Fiji Hiroshi Tajima said Japan was pleased to support an initiative that would directly improve accessibility and service delivery for passengers.
“As air travel and tourism continue to grow across the Pacific, ensuring accessibility for all travellers is becoming increasingly important,” Mr Tajima said in a statement from Fiji Airports.
The ambulift will be operated by six specially trained Fiji Airports drivers who have completed specialised operational training delivered by technical experts from China.
The commissioning event also featured demonstrations of a new walk-through metal detector and passenger screening equipment at the primary screening point, which will further strengthen aviation security and support more efficient passenger processing at the Nadi International Airport.
