Fiji Airports clarifies Labasa Airport runway works

Fiji Airports confirms that the runway strengthening works and new terminal construction at Labasa Airport are proceeding as planned and have not been placed on hold — contrary to statements published in The Fiji Times (7 February 2026).

The temporary closure of Labasa Airport from February 16 to March 27, 2026, will go ahead as scheduled to allow for critical runway pavement strengthening works. Fiji Airports has worked closely with airline operators Fiji Airways (Fiji Link) and Northern Air to ensure continued air connectivity during this period.

Fiji Airports Chief Executive Officer Mesake Nawari said the temporary closure is necessary to facilitate essential runway upgrades that are vital to long-term safety, structural integrity, and continued compliance with international aviation standards.

To minimise disruption to travellers, businesses, and the wider Northern Division, Fiji Airways (Fiji Link) will operate 44 additional flights to and from Savusavu Airport, while Northern Air will operate two daily flights on the Savusavu route throughout the closure period.

To support travellers' movement, normal bus services will continue to operate as usual. Passengers with direct hotel bookings in the Northern Division will also be provided with minibus pick-up schedules. Timetables and route information will be shared shortly through Fiji Airports’ official channels and social media platforms.

Mr Nawari said the decision to temporarily close Labasa Airport was not taken lightly but is necessary due to the nature of the runway works.

“These runway upgrades are critical to addressing existing structural issues and ensuring ongoing compliance with international aviation safety standards,” he said.

“We remain committed to maintaining air connectivity for Vanua Levu during this period and thank the public for their patience and cooperation as we carry out these essential works.”

The runway strengthening project is funded under the Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu (Na Vualiku Project), supported by the World Bank.

The upgrades also form part of Fiji Airports’ long-term infrastructure improvement programme and align with its broader vision of becoming a world-class aviation hub in the Blue Pacific. Fiji Airports remains committed to delivering safe, reliable, and welcoming travel experiences across its network.

“This is an investment in the future of the Northern Division,” Mr Nawari added.

“Carrying out these works now will help mitigate unplanned disruptions in the future.”

Mr Nawari also clarified that three key projects are currently underway at Labasa Airport:
1. Construction of the new terminal building
2. Runway strengthening works commencing on February 16
3. feasibility studies and master planning exercises under the Na Vualiku Project to assess the long-term development of Labasa Airport and the wider Vanua Levu region, including the possibility of a new airport.