ADB, Fiji, and Japan Celebrate Launch of Enhanced Airport Facilities to Support Tourism Recovery

Mr. Nawari highlighted the importance of the project: “With visitor arrivals at an all-time high, these improvements will enhance efficiency and ensure that travelers continue to choose Fiji.”

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has joined the governments of Fiji and Japan in a commissioning ceremony for upgraded terminal facilities aimed at boosting the capacity and resilience of Fiji's airport operations. The ceremony, held today, was attended by Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, Rokuichiro Michii, ADB’s Pacific Subregional Office Regional Director Aaron Batten, and Fiji Airports Chief Executive Officer Mesake Nawari.

The upgrades are part of the ADB-supported Fiji Enhancing COVID-19 Preparedness for Tourism Recovery Project, which is funded by a $3 million grant (F$6.3 million) from the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific, financed by the Government of Japan.

“Tourism is a vital component of Fiji’s economy. This grant from Japan is crucial in enhancing Nadi International Airport's capacity and improving tourism processes as visitor numbers increase,” said Mr. Batten.

Mr. Nawari highlighted the importance of the project: “With visitor arrivals at an all-time high, these improvements will enhance efficiency and ensure that travelers continue to choose Fiji.”

The upgrades include the new Departure Gate 8 at Nadi Airport, which features universal seating areas, accessible washrooms—including a dedicated family washroom—water fountains, electronic charging stations, crowd control barriers, and additional baggage trolleys. These enhancements are designed to alleviate congestion, manage passenger flow, and improve overall airport services.

Additionally, the project has implemented COVID-19 safety measures, including a testing facility at the Fiji Airways Aviation Academy for tourists and tourism industry workers, and constructed covered, moveable passenger walkways at Suva’s Nausori Airport.

Approximately 90,000 people, predominantly women, are expected to benefit from the project through direct and indirect employment opportunities in the tourism sector.