The Prime Minister of Fiji Voreqe Bainimarama has broken ground on Nausori International Airport’s runway upgrade extension project.
The project, worth FJ$60m ($28.19m), includes the expansion of airport facilities and construction of a bigger runway and a new terminal. Additionally, the existing runway and pavement infrastructure will be completely upgraded.
The investment will be made by Fiji Airports, a government-owned entity that operates 15 airports in the Fiji Islands including Nadi and Nausori International airports and 13 other domestic airports.
Under the plans, the length of the existing runway will be increased from 1,670m to 2,140m, while its width will extend from 30m to 45m.
Additionally, taxiways designated for aircraft will be widened, and a new parking apron will be created outside in preparation for a future phase of planned terminal upgrades.
The scope of works will also include the construction of a drained strip area and a runway end safety area, the installation and upgrade of associated navigational aids and the diversion of existing road infrastructure.
It will also involve the erection of a new perimeter security fence and paving new perimeter road, all of which will contribute for a well-planned, safer airport.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said: “A modern, world-class airport in Nausori will attract more tourists, diplomats, and business travellers to come directly to Suva, and by becoming another primary gateway to Fiji, the people in the communities around us stand to gain in a very big way.
“The extended runway and upgrades will allow bigger aircraft to land in Nausori, to carry more passengers and cargo, and to carry more fuel, resulting in far more doors opening for new routes throughout the region and the world.”
The new Nausori Airport runway is expected to become operational from the beginning of 2021.
