Suva, 25 November 2025 – The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation supports Fiji Airports’ decision to undertake critical runway strengthening works at Labasa Airport from 16 February to 27 March 2026. This upgrade is a key safety initiative that will protect passengers and airline crew and ensure safe and reliable aircraft operations across the Northern Division. 

Comprehensive technical assessments confirm that the current condition of the runway no longer meets safety operating standards for the ATR 72 aircraft. The works will address structural fatigue, prevent further deterioration, and ensure full compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements. This will extend the runway’s lifespan and support reliable air services. 

Funded through a World Bank loan under the Na Vualiku Project, this upgrade is part of broader efforts to improve transport access for Vanua Levu and strengthen long-term connectivity. 

The Ministry acknowledges the temporary impacts on residents, businesses, medical travel, and the tourism sector. Consultations in Labasa and Savusavu have highlighted concerns about hotel occupancy and freight delays. Fiji Airports is working with authorities and relevant stakeholders on mitigation measures which will be shared accordingly.

The Ministry commends Fiji Airports for providing early notice and welcomes its commitment to a comprehensive public information campaign. These will include radio, print, social media, and regular updates on the Fiji Airports and Na Vualiku Project websites, helping travellers and businesses to plan ahead. 

This upgrade represents a short-term disruption that will deliver long-term benefits for aviation safety, reliability, and economic resilience in Vanua Levu.  

The Coalition Government remains committed to improving air connectivity, supporting the Northern economy, and enhancing the resilience of Fiji’s aviation infrastructure. 

For further information, the public is encouraged to follow updates from Fiji Airports.  

ENDS 

Source: https://mtca.gov.fj/press-release-labasa-airport-runway-upgrade-to-strengthen-aviation-safety-and-reliability/

FBC News: Labasa Airport will be temporarily closed from February 16th to March 27th next year to allow critical runway pavement strengthening works to take place.

Fiji Airports says these works are essential to improving the safety, reliability, and long-term resilience of the airport.

It says funded by the World Bank under the Na Vualiku Project, this upgrade will strengthen key sections of the runway to improve its Pavement Classification Rating – a key measure of how much weight a runway can safely support.

Once completed, the upgraded runway will be able to safely accommodate ATR 72 aircraft operations, in line with an approved safety case!

Fiji Airports is also working closely with airline partners and transport stakeholders to finalise transport arrangements and ensure travel options for passengers are available during the temporary closure of Labasa Airport.

Source: FBC News

Labasa Airport to close for critical runway upgrade

Fiji Village: Labasa Airport will be closed from 16 February to 27 March 2026 to allow critical runway pavement strengthening works.

Fiji Airports says the upgrade is essential for improving the airport’s safety, reliability, and long-term resilience.

They say it will enhance key sections of the runway to improve its Pavement Classification Rating, which is a measure of how much weight a runway can safely support.

They add that once completed, the upgraded runway will accommodate ATR 72 aircraft operations, in line with an approved safety case.

The works are funded by the World Bank under the Na Vualiku Project.

Fiji Airports is also working with airline partners and transport stakeholders to ensure travel options are available for passengers during the temporary closure.

Source: https://www.fijivillage.com/news/Labasa-Airport-to-close-temporarily-for-runway-upgrade-works-4r8xf5/