Hotel operator selection is underway for a new-build hotel at Nadi International Airport following a successful year for the nation’s tourism sector.

Fiji Airports Ltd CEO Mesake Nawari has revealed plans for “a new transit hotel, a state-of-the-art commercial and retail building and expanded parking facilities” as part of a 10-year strategic plan.

“We have a new vision, and the vision is to be the world-class aviation hub for the Blue Pacific,” Nawari told The Fiji Times.

The company is in the second stage of the tender evaluation to select a hotel operator.

Nawari is hopeful that the transit hotel will encourage those with a long layover to spend some time experiencing Nadi and beyond.  

Upgrade of the airport precinct is also expected to include the introduction of restaurants and retail outlets close to the hotel.

Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill confirmed the plans, saying there is interest from a number of international hotel brands.

“We have seen the plans for the airport hotel within the Nadi Airport precinct itself, and this is an exciting plan and much needed,” Hill told HM.

“Around the world airport hotels are a critical part of tourism. Nadi International is already a transit hub of significance, especially in the South Pacific, and having a modern airport hotel will greatly enhance the visitor experience for those seeking transit or a short stay or business.

“We have been speaking with a number of international hotel brands who are all very interested in this development, and we’re sure that the final successful brand to partner with Fiji Airports will be fantastic for Fiji and for the project.

“We look forward to working with them throughout this process.”

HM has contacted Fiji Airports for comment.