The Government is exploring the expansion of Lakeba Airport’s runway to accommodate an ATR-42 aircraft as part of broader efforts to boost connectivity and sustainable tourism in the Lau Group.
Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka says better aviation access is essential to unlock tourism potential in remote communities like Lau.
Gavoka says a preliminary assessment of the Lakeba runway was conducted during the Lau Tourism Scoping Mission visit.
He says safer and more reliable air services will help create opportunities for community-led tourism, but stressed that the future of tourism in Lau must be shaped and led by its people.
The mission visited the chiefly village of Tubou and met with the Lakeba Tourism Committee, who emphasised that tourism can help preserve culture, drive local economic growth, and reduce urban migration.
He adds these goals also align with the work of the International Organization for Migration.
He also stated that to support digital access, two Starlink satellite internet packages were installed—one at the Lau Provincial Council Office and another at the Lakeba Health Centre.
UNDP Pacific’s Head of Mission, Munkhtuya Altangerel says all development in Lau must align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and highlighted the importance of sustainability, inclusion, and local ownership in tourism growth.
The scoping mission will continue to Vanuabalavu today.
