Following concerns about the lack of security checks and screenings at Taveuni and Nausori Airports, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka says that if international rules were applied, it would be clear that security at these airports needs to be strengthened.
This comes as Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma questioned Gavoka regarding security concerns in terms of scanning and screening machines.
He says that when they left Taveuni, no security scanning was conducted, and given that the Pacific is not immune to drugs—which are often linked to guns, ammunition, and money—he asks when security scanning and screening systems will be installed at these ports of entry.
Sharma says he asked a Parliamentary Committee what Fiji’s response would be if someone boarded a plane from Taveuni with a gun—without any scanning or screening—and hijacked the plane.
While responding, Gavoka says it is a concern, as aviation is about safety, security, and ease of travel.
People have raised similar concerns with regards to lack of security checks at the Labasa Airport.
Questions sent to Airport Fiji Limited on why the baggage are not checked for people travelling in and out of Labasa Airport remain unanswered.
