A 19,000kg weight limit has been imposed for ATR72 operations at the Waiqele Airport runway in Labasa.
The implementation of the weight restrictions strategy serves to protect its integrity and safety of the runway.
The decision followed a review initiated earlier this year with the Fiji Link team, and in line with updated Pavement Classification Rating (PCR) findings submitted by Beca Consultants.
The design and engineering consultancy company had conducted assessments and provided the necessary PCR ratings for all existing aerodromes.
Fiji Airports CEO Mesake Nawari said the decision was crucial to prevent further pavement deterioration at the Labasa-based airport that been worsened by heavy braking operations.
“The imposition of a 19,000kg weight limit for ATR 72 operations at Labasa Airport is a critical safety decision that Fiji Airports has undertaken based on the recent engineering pavement assessment study undertaken by BECA Consultants, in compliance with the new international aviation standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),” Mr Nawari said in a statement.
“ICAO mandated the implementation of the Aircraft Classification Rating (ACR) and Pavement Classification Rating (PCR) system by November 28, 2024.
“To turn a blind eye on the Labasa PCR pavement assessment is a blatant disregard for safety that could be catastrophic.”
The PCR Report, shared with Fiji Link, outlines the current pavement strength at Labasa Airport cannot safely support ATR 72-600 or C-27J Spartan aircraft at their maximum take-off weight.
The report also recommended a weight restriction to safely align the aircraft weight (ACR) with the pavement strength (PCR), resulting in a 19,000kg limit for ATR 72-600 operations.
Under ICAO aerodrome classification, Labasa Airport is classified as a Code 2C Aerodrome, designed for smaller aircraft types such as the ATR 42-600.
“Nevertheless, Fiji Airports, in collaboration with Fiji Link, previously developed and implemented a Safety Case (2022) allowing ATR 72-600 operations under specific conditions, accepted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji.
“In light of the revised PCR rating for Labasa, this safety case is currently being reviewed to allow ATR 700 62 operations.”
In the interim, Fiji Airports will increase the frequency of pavement inspections and promptly address any identified defects for safety and operational continuity.
“We are actively exploring remediation options for Labasa Airport’s pavement to restore full operational capacity in the future.”
