Towards 2030: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

The Government of Tuvalu is undertaking an ambitious domestic air services project which aims to develop domestic airstrips on all of its outer islands; Nanumea Island, Nanumaga Island, Nui Island, Vaitupu Island, Nukufetau Island and Nukulaelae Island.

Working with various government departments including the Marine Section, Lands Unit, Public Work Department, Finance Department, Aviation Department and Legal Department, the Environment department led consultations with island communities to secure their agreement for the use of land for the project.

Having collected the relevant information and data the project is well underway with the first airstrip scheduled for completion this year and the overall project completion in 2023.

If successful, the project will be able to contribute to the development of the country’s tourism industry through improved access which will ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared to other islands of Tuvalu as well.

Image: Work progressing on the Vaitupu airstrip (Source: Tuvalu Department of Tourism)