Tonga’s Fua’amotu International Airport will undergo a significant transformation with new passenger boarding bridges and an expanded terminal, funded through a grant from the Government of Japan.
The upgrades mark the first installation of modern air-bridges in Tonga, revolutionising passenger boarding at the country’s main international gateway.
The multi-million pa’anga project will completely renovate the International Terminal Building, adding elevators for accessibility and constructing a covered shelter at the entrance to protect travellers from the elements.
Aviation officials confirmed the upgrades will also expand the aircraft apron area to prevent operational disruptions during technical issues with planes.
“Additionally, the International Apron will be expanded to ensure continued operations of international flights, even in the event of an aircraft breakdown,” a statement by the Japan International Cooperation Agency in Tonga says this afternoon.
The infrastructure improvement project comes in response to Tonga’s official request to Japan for assistance in upgrading the country’s main international gateway. Since 2022, JICA has conducted extensive preparatory surveys to assess the airport’s needs and develop comprehensive upgrade plans.
Key improvements will focus on the international terminal, featuring an expanded and renovated Passenger Terminal Building.
The upgrades will introduce modern passenger facilities, including Tonga’s first passenger boarding air-bridge and elevator, along with a new covered shelter at the terminal entrance.
The project will also expand the International Apron to maintain flight operations during aircraft technical issues.
Fua’amotu International Airport, originally built in 1989 through Japanese-Tongan cooperation, serves as Tonga’s primary connection to global air routes.
This new investment represents the latest chapter in the long-standing partnership between Japan and Tonga, demonstrating their shared commitment to infrastructure development and regional connectivity.
The upgrade project aims to enhance passenger experience while ensuring the airport meets international safety and operational standards.
Construction timelines and implementation details will be announced following completion of final design work and tender processes.
The project underscores Japan’s ongoing support for Pacific Island nations’ infrastructure development.
