Fiji Airports Partners with Collins Aerospace in $17.5m Deal to modernise Nadi International Airport

Fiji Airports has officially signed a landmark agreement today with Collins Aerospace, Singapore, to modernise passenger processing and infrastructure at Nadi International Airport, the country’s primary aviation gateway. The deal, valued at FJD 17.5 million, marks a major leap in Fiji Airports' commitment to delivering world-class, technology-driven service. The agreement was formalised at Fiji Airports headquarters in Nadi by Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mesake Nawari and Collins Aerospace Global Director of Business Development – Airports, Mr. Steve Robinson. “This important partnership signifies our commitment to delivering a world-class airport experience to all travellers,” said Mr. Nawari. “Through this project, we are integrating cutting-edge technologies that will significantly enhance airport operations, streamline passenger journeys, and position Nadi International Airport for future growth.”

The Digital Airport Transformation will be delivered in two strategic Stages:
Stage 1 – 2026

Implementation of core airport systems, including; CUPPS (Common Use Passenger Processing System),CUSS (Common Use Self-Service kiosks), ABD (Airline Boarding Data), AODB (Airport Operational Database) and FIDS (Flight Information Display System). These systems will be hosted in fully redundant data centers, connected via secure, high-speed networks across Fiji’s key international airports.

Stage 2 – 2028
Deployment of advanced biometric processing technologies; Biometric-enabled self-bag drop units, facial recognition e-Gates at boarding and immigration, seamless integration with Fiji’s border control systems and real-time data analytics for smarter airport management.

Passengers will benefit from faster check-in via biometric kiosks, Bag drop in under 30 seconds, facial recognition at e-Gates for boarding and immigration and reduced wait times and enhanced security.

“We’re proud to work alongside Fiji Airports to help deliver a seamless, data-driven, and passenger-centric experience,” said Mr. Robinson.

“This project is about innovating and collaborating on the most impactful initiatives in aerospace.
“It reflects our shared commitment to creating smarter airports for the future.”

Under the contract, valued specifically at FJD 17.5 million with a project delivery timeline of 7 months, Collins Aerospace will deliver a comprehensive suite of technological solutions, including biometric processing, E-Gates, and streamlining passenger identification to enable faster and more secure processing.

Mr Nawari noted that Fiji Airports and Collins Aerospace have engaged closely with key Airport stakeholders, including the Airlines and the Immigration Department, during the initial planning phase, and will continue this collaborative approach throughout the project's delivery to ensure a smooth and coordinated implementation.

He adds that the stakeholders have also been involved in the selection of Collins Aerospace and preliminary discussions as well.

The project also includes advanced systems integration with Fiji’s border control systems to enhance security and data flow, and Back-End data analytics solutions, which will enable full operational visibility and real-time tracking and data-driven decision-making to support future airport growth.

The project will also reduce queue times and improve the overall travel experience, encouraging higher passenger satisfaction and increased commercial spend. The commissioning for Stage 1 is planned for December 2025, with a strong focus on minimising operational disruptions during the transition phase.

Fiji Airports has extended its existing SITA support contract to mitigate operational risks during the technology transition, ensuring continuity and minimal disruption for travellers and airline partners. This initiative aligns with Fiji Airports’ vision “To Be the World-Class Aviation Hub for the Blue Pacific”, enhancing connectivity, supporting tourism growth, and boosting the broader Fijian economy. By modernising its passenger processing and integrating real-time, scalable technologies, Nadi International Airport is setting a new benchmark for travel in the Pacific region.

Fiji Airports chief executive Mesake Nawari signs the partnership agreement with Collins Aerospace Singapore Global BD Director Steve Robinson at the Fiji Airports headquarters in Nadi

Fiji Airports executive management team and Collins Aerospace Singapore Management team following the signing in Nadi