Press Release – Coalition Government Charts New Course for Yasawa Connectivity: Feasibility Study to Strengthen Air and Sea Links

Parliament of Fiji, Suva – 4 November 2025 – The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, today reaffirmed the Coalition Government’s commitment to strengthening connectivity across Fiji’s outer islands, announcing in Parliament the progress of the Yasawa Group Feasibility Study.

The study aims to enhance inter-island transport, open new economic opportunities, and improve access to essential services for communities scattered across the Yasawa Islands.

Hon. Gavoka said the project represents “a major step toward a more connected and inclusive Fiji,” positioning the Yasawa region as a key node in the country’s long-term transport and tourism strategy.

The Feasibility Study is backed by a joint funding of $400,000, with $150,000 allocated through the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation’s consultancy budget, and $250,000 through the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport for the technical assessments related to the proposed Yasawa airport.

The two ministries are collaborating closely with Fiji Airports Limited, which has already conducted a preliminary site assessment to evaluate land suitability and alignment with aviation standards.

A Steering Committee will soon be established to coordinate the technical and environmental assessments and ensure the project aligns with national and international aviation standards.

“The Terms of Reference are being finalised and will guide every phase of this study,” Gavoka said. “It ensures that technical, environmental, and socio-economic considerations are addressed comprehensively before development begins.”

He added that one of the key elements of the study is to assess passenger and freight demand, a vital step to determine the viability and sustainability of the new airport.

The study will also examine the environmental footprint, ensuring compliance with both Fiji’s regulations and international aviation standards, reflecting the government’s focus on sustainable and responsible development.

Complementing the air connectivity plan, the private sector is also stepping forward. The South Sea Cruises Group has commissioned the new Yasawa Flyer III, a 30-metre vessel capable of carrying 320 passengers—a 33 percent increase from its predecessor. The vessel, expected to enter service by August 2025, will improve daily services between Port Denarau and the Yasawa Islands, providing stronger links for residents, businesses, and tourists.

Hon. Gavoka noted that these combined developments, in both air and sea transport, form part of a holistic approach to connectivity under the Coalition Government’s development vision.

He said, “The new Yasawa airport will not only bring the islands closer to the rest of Fiji, but it will also open new pathways for investment, employment, and service delivery. This project is about giving the people of Yasawa greater access to opportunity and ensuring no community remains isolated.”

The Feasibility Study is expected to set the groundwork for long-term infrastructure development in the Yasawa Group, reinforcing Fiji’s position as a regional leader in sustainable tourism and island connectivity.

Click here to read or download Ministers Parliamentary Response https://shorturl.at/jNmDc

ENDS

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