The redevelopment of the Nausori International Airport terminal has officially begun, with landowners from Naselai Village highlighting the project as a historic moment of recognition and inclusion for communities that have long supported the land on which the airport sits.

The groundbreaking ceremony at Luvuluvu brought together Government leaders, traditional chiefs, and aviation stakeholders, but it was the voices of landowners that stood out, particularly 77-year-old Naselai Village landowner Verenaisi Rokobale, who said she felt deeply acknowledged during the event.

“Even in the groundbreaking today, we are so glad that the landowners are fully recognised. Our head of Yavusa was sitting right beside the Chief Guest this morning. We are happy that we are really recognised now. I am feeling so happy and so excited to be able to witness this historic moment,” she said.

Her remarks reflected the sentiment of many landowners present, who view the redevelopment not only as an infrastructure upgrade but also as a long-awaited recognition of their role in supporting national development on their land.

Minister for Public Enterprises Charan Jeath Singh said the project represents more than physical construction, describing it as an investment in connectivity, opportunity, and long-term national growth.

He said Nausori Airport plays a critical role as Fiji’s second international gateway and a key connector for the Central Division, government operations, and regional travel.

“Today’s project is about strengthening connectivity across Fiji and the Pacific, supporting tourism growth, creating employment opportunities, and positioning Nausori Airport as a modern international gateway for the future,” Singh said.

He added that Government’s decision to reinvest dividends from Fiji Airports into aviation infrastructure ensures that national assets continue to deliver direct benefits to communities across Fiji, including outer islands and rural areas.

Fiji Airports Chief Executive Officer Mesake Nawari echoed this, saying landowners and surrounding communities will be key beneficiaries of the redevelopment through employment, business opportunities, and improved access to services.

“This redevelopment will improve passenger experience, support growing demand, and strengthen connectivity for the Central Division and beyond,” Nawari said.

He added that the long-term development plan for Nausori Airport will ensure sustained economic growth, tourism expansion, and improved infrastructure for future generations.

The redevelopment will include expanded passenger areas, upgraded check-in and baggage systems, modern security facilities, and improved commercial spaces designed to meet international standards.

Beyond infrastructure, officials emphasised that the project is expected to generate jobs during construction and create long-term economic opportunities for landowners and local businesses in the Nausori–Suva corridor.

Traditional leaders also attended the ceremony, witnessing what Government has described as a key step in strengthening Fiji’s aviation network and decentralising development.

For landowners like Rokobale, however, the moment carried deeper meaning, a sense that their connection to the land is finally being recognised in national development.

“It is a very happy and emotional moment for us,” she said.

The project forms part of Fiji Airports’ wider investment programme aimed at modernising aviation infrastructure across the country, including upgrades to outer island airports and major works at Nadi International Airport.