Alternative arrangements have been implemented to ensure the continued accessibility for travelers and businesses in the Northern Division during the temporary closure of Labasa Airport next month. Fiji Airports has announced that during this period, Fiji Link, the domestic carrier of Fiji Airways, will provide 44 additional flights to and from Savusavu Airport. Additionally, Northern Air will operate two daily flights on the same route.
Regular bus services will continue to operate as scheduled, and passengers with direct hotel reservations in the North will have access to minibus pickup services. Detailed timetables and route information will be made available via Fiji Airports’ official communication channels and social media platforms as they are finalized.
Chief Executive Officer of Fiji Airports, Mesake Nawari, emphasized that the decision to temporarily close Labasa Airport was made with great consideration due to the necessity of the upgrade works. He stated, “These runway upgrades are vital to addressing structural issues and ensuring ongoing compliance with international aviation safety standards.” Nawari expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and cooperation during these essential works.
The upgrade initiative is part of a broader investment project, supported by the World Bank, under the Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu – Na Vualiku Project. Nawari noted that these upgrades align with Fiji Airports’ long-term infrastructure improvement strategy and vision of establishing a world-class aviation hub in the Blue Pacific. He assured that the organization remains committed to ensuring safe, reliable, and welcoming travel experiences across its network.
Fiji Airways has confirmed that the added 44 flights are supplemental to its existing Savusavu flight schedule. Currently, the airline operates four scheduled daily flights between Nadi and Savusavu, along with three scheduled weekly flights from Suva to Savusavu.
Labasa Airport is set to close temporarily from February 16 to March 27, allowing for critical runway enhancement aimed at ensuring long-term safety, structural integrity, and compliance with international aviation standards. The preparations being made signal a promising future for the Northern Division, aiming to enhance travel and economic opportunities while ensuring the longevity and safety of air travel in the region.