Fiji Airports boosts water rescue Capability with three new boats from Japan

Fiji Airports has strengthened its emergency response capability with the addition of three new rescue boats funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), enhancing its ability to respond to aviation emergencies over or near water.

The boats were officially handed over at Nadi International Airport under the Project for the Improvement of Aviation Safety Facilities at Major Airports in Fiji, a major initiative supporting improvements in aviation safety, emergency response capabilities and air navigation infrastructure.

The new vessels include one 7.6-metre rescue boat and two 4.3-metre rescue boats, providing Fiji Airports' Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Service (ARFFS) with additional resources to carry out water rescue operations and assist people in distress.

Fiji Airports Acting Chief Executive Officer Amit Singh said the investment marked an important step in strengthening emergency preparedness and protecting lives.

“In an emergency, every second matters. Having the right equipment, supported by trained personnel, can make a critical difference when lives are at risk,” Mr Singh said.

“These new rescue boats strengthen our ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies over or near water, reinforcing our commitment to aviation safety and the protection of human life.”

Beyond the delivery of the vessels, the project has also strengthened the technical and operational skills of Fiji Airports personnel.

ARFFS teams have received practical training in the vessels' mechanical systems, maintenance and troubleshooting to support their safe and reliable operation.
The Ambassador of Japan to Fiji, His Excellency Hiroshi Tajima, said the handover reflected Japan's continued cooperation with Fiji in strengthening critical infrastructure and public safety.

“These initiatives reflect Japan’s commitment to working alongside Fiji to strengthen essential infrastructure, enhance safety and support sustainable economic development,” His Excellency Tajima said.

JICA Resident Representative in Fiji, Yumi Kimura, said the new rescue boats would strengthen Fiji Airports' emergency response capabilities, particularly in conducting rescue operations at sea.

The rescue boats form part of a wider aviation safety programme supported through a Grant Aid Agreement signed by the Governments of Fiji and Japan in September 2024.

The programme also includes five new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicles for Nausori, Labasa, Savusavu and Matei airports, along with new VHF Omnidirectional Range/Distance Measuring Equipment (VOR/DME) navigation facilities at Momi, serving Nadi, and at Labasa Airport.

Fiji Airports personnel have also received specialised training in instrument flight procedure design to support the upgraded navigation infrastructure. These improvements will strengthen en-route and terminal navigation and support the development and updating of instrument flight procedures for Nadi and Labasa.
Mr Singh acknowledged the Government and people of Japan and JICA for their continued partnership and support in strengthening Fiji's aviation sector.

“This handover is about more than new equipment. It is about investing in our people, strengthening our capabilities and ensuring we are prepared before an emergency occurs,” he said.

“We are grateful for Japan's continued partnership and remain committed to maintaining these assets and ensuring our personnel are trained, equipped and ready to respond when needed.”

Fiji Airports also acknowledged the contribution of project consultants, suppliers and technical specialists involved in delivering the initiative.

The investment reflects Fiji Airports' ongoing commitment to strengthening aviation safety, emergency preparedness and the resilience of Fiji's airport network.

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