Fiji Airports and its chief executive Mesake Nawari have received international recognition at the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Travel Awards 2026 held in Berlin, Germany, with Nadi International Airport named Best Airport – South Pacific Islands.
Nawari also received the PATWA Gold Award – Excellence in Leadership – Airports (South Pacific Islands) during the PATWA World Tourism Leaders’ Summit held alongside ITB Berlin on March 4.
The awards recognise governments, organisations, brands and individuals for outstanding contributions to tourism promotion and leadership across the global travel and aviation industry.
Recipients span airlines, airports, hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, destinations, tourism ministries and service providers from across the travel sector.
The awards were presented by PATWA Secretary-General Yatan Ahluwalia.
Nawari said the recognition reflects the collective effort of Fiji’s aviation and tourism stakeholders.
“This is a proud and humbling moment for Fiji Airports and for Fiji, of course, as a popular tourism destination,” Nawari said.
“These awards reflect the dedication, professionalism and passion of our staff and airport stakeholders, who work tirelessly to ensure our airports operate safely, efficiently, and with the warmth that Fiji is known for. I am honoured to accept this recognition on behalf of all our board, our staff and stakeholders," he said.
The recognition of Nadi International Airport highlights Fiji Airports’ continued investment in infrastructure, safety, service excellence and passenger experience.
As Fiji’s main gateway, the airport plays a key role in supporting the country’s tourism sector, trade flows and broader economic growth.
Nawari said the aviation industry will increasingly be shaped by sustainability, technology and evolving traveller expectations.
“Over the next decade, sustainability, technology and customer experience will define the future of travel,” he said.
“At Fiji Airports, we are focused on balancing these priorities, reducing our environmental footprint, embracing smart technologies, and delivering seamless, inclusive and authentic travel experiences," he added.
Fiji Airports said it remains committed to strengthening partnerships with airline partners, government agencies, tourism stakeholders and travellers as it works toward its vision of becoming “the world-class aviation hub for the Blue Pacific.”
