Savusavu Airport (SVU)

Savusavu Airport (IATA: SVU, ICAO: NFNS) serves as a vital domestic air link to the town of Savusavu on Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu. Primarily facilitating tourism and local transport, it provides essential connectivity to Viti Levu, the main island. The airport is a key gateway for visitors heading to the area's renowned resorts, dive sites, and pearl farms, playing a crucial role in the regional economy. Its single runway and modest infrastructure handle a steady flow of travelers seeking access to this less-developed but popular part of Fiji.

Managed by Airports Fiji Limited, the airport has a long-standing history as a foundational piece of Vanua Levu’s transportation network. For decades, it has provided reliable service connecting the remote region with Fiji's primary international and domestic hubs. Its operation has been fundamental to the growth of tourism in the Savusavu area, evolving from a simple airstrip to a functional, though small, modern airport capable of handling daily scheduled flights.

The airport is conveniently located approximately three kilometers from Savusavu town, a short five-minute drive along the Hibiscus Highway. Access is straightforward, with taxis readily available outside the terminal to meet arriving flights. Many local resorts and hotels also provide pre-arranged shuttle services for their guests, which is the most common and recommended mode of transport. There is no public bus service that runs directly to the airport terminal.

Operations at Savusavu Airport are exclusively domestic. The primary carrier is Fiji Link, the domestic arm of Fiji Airways, which operates multiple daily flights to and from Nadi International Airport (NAN) and Nausori International Airport (SUV) near Suva. Northern Air also offers scheduled services. Flights are typically operated using turboprop aircraft such as the ATR 42/72 and the smaller DHC-6 Twin Otter, which are well-suited for the airport's short runway.

Facilities at the airport are basic and align with its small size. The single, open-air terminal building houses check-in counters, a small waiting area with limited seating, and restrooms. There are no lounges, large retail shops, or dedicated restaurants within the terminal itself, although small vendors may occasionally sell snacks and drinks. The focus is on efficient passenger processing for arrivals and departures.

For travelers, it is advisable to arrive 60 to 90 minutes prior to a scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and security. Pre-booking onward transportation, such as a taxi or hotel shuttle, is highly recommended as options can be limited upon arrival. Passengers connecting to international flights in Nadi should ensure they have a sufficient layover time, as domestic flights can sometimes be subject to weather-related delays.