Cicia Airport (ICI)

Cicia Airport (IATA: ICI, ICAO: NFCI) is a small domestic airfield that serves as the primary air gateway to the remote volcanic island of Cicia, located within Fiji's Lau Archipelago. It functions as a vital lifeline, connecting the island's residents to Viti Levu, Fiji's main island, for commerce, medical needs, and essential supplies. For visitors, it offers access to an area of Fiji that remains largely untouched by mainstream tourism, providing a glimpse into traditional island life. The airport's significance lies in its role in overcoming the geographical isolation of the Lau Group, forming a critical piece of national infrastructure that supports outer island communities.

The airport is situated on the western side of the island, a short distance from the main villages of Tarukua, Lomaji, and Natokalau. Due to the island's remote nature, public transportation is not formally available at the airfield. Travelers must pre-arrange transport, typically through their host village or local accommodation, who will often organize a pickup via a 4x4 vehicle or carrier truck. The journey from the airstrip to the villages is brief and travels along unpaved roads, offering immediate immersion into the island's rugged, natural landscape.

Operations at Cicia Airport are exclusively domestic and characterized by low volume. Flights are not daily, often operating on a weekly or bi-weekly schedule, and are subject to weather conditions and passenger demand. The primary carrier serving the island is Fiji Link, the domestic arm of Fiji Airways, which operates services using small turboprop aircraft, such as the DHC-6 Twin Otter, suited for the airport's short, unpaved runway. These flights typically connect Cicia with Nausori International Airport (SUV) near Suva.

The facilities at Cicia Airport are minimal, reflecting its function as a basic outer island airstrip. There is no traditional terminal building. Instead, a small, open-air shelter provides protection from the sun and rain for waiting passengers. There are no check-in counters, retail shops, cafes, or lounges. Restroom facilities may be available but are very basic. Travelers will not find amenities such as Wi-Fi, currency exchange services, or rental car agencies on-site.

For those traveling to Cicia, practical planning is essential. It is crucial to confirm flight schedules directly with the airline, as they can change. Arriving approximately 60 to 90 minutes before departure is typically sufficient for the simple check-in process. All ground transportation must be arranged well in advance of arrival. Visitors should also bring their own snacks, water, and any necessary medications. Carrying a sufficient amount of Fijian currency is highly recommended, as credit card facilities and ATMs are non-existent on the island. Due to the potential for weather-related flight delays, travelers connecting to international flights should allow a substantial buffer of at least one or two days on the main island.