Will Lakeba Airport's expansion for the ATR-42 unlock Fiji's Lau tourism potential?

The Fiji Government is exploring a significant upgrade at Lakeba Airport (LKB/NFNK).

This plan involves a runway expansion to accommodate the larger ATR-42 aircraft. The move is a core part of a broader strategy to boost connectivity and foster sustainable tourism in the remote Lau Group.

Aviation Access and Economic Impact

Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka confirmed the exploration. He stated that better aviation access is essential for unlocking tourism potential. Remote communities like Lau require safer and more reliable air services.

This initiative is expected to create opportunities for community-led tourism. The Lau Tourism Scoping Mission conducted a preliminary assessment of the Lakeba runway. The mission found that tourism can help preserve culture and drive local economic growth. It may also help reduce urban migration from the outer islands. These goals align with the work of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Minister Gavoka stressed that the future of Lau tourism must be shaped and led by its people. This approach aims to spread the benefits of the industry beyond Fiji's main centers. Currently, about 70% of the country's tourism activity is concentrated in a few provinces.

Technical and Logistical Challenges

Lakeba Airport is operated by Airports Fiji Limited (AFL). The airport currently has one runway measuring approximately 723 meters (2,372 feet). The ATR-42, a twin-turboprop regional airliner, typically requires a longer runway for optimal operations. The proposed expansion would allow for more reliable service with a higher-capacity aircraft type, like the ATR-42.

Developing remote outer island airports presents significant logistical challenges. The runway was last upgraded in 2019, costing approximately FJD $0.3 million. A major expansion to accommodate the ATR-42 would require substantial further investment and planning.

Alignment with Sustainable Development

The Lau Tourism Scoping Mission included a multi-agency delegation. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific’s Head of Mission, Munkhtuya Altangerel, was part of the mission. Altangerel emphasized that all development in Lau must align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. This highlights the importance of sustainability, inclusion, and local ownership in the growth of tourism.

To support digital access, two Starlink satellite internet packages were installed. One package was placed at the Lau Provincial Council Office. The second was installed at the Lakeba Health Centre. This infrastructure supports the broader goal of improving remote island connectivity. The scoping mission is scheduled to continue to Vanuabalavu. The findings will guide future policy and investment decisions.

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