Fiji: Possible disruptions at Nadi International Airport amid labor dispute Dec. 28

Event

Airport workers from Nadi International Airport (NAN) in Fiji have been locked out of the airport amid an ongoing labor dispute, which began in mid-December, according to media reports published Thursday, December 28. Air Terminal Services (ATS), the airport workers' employer, has reportedly called on police to evict the workers - who have been sitting outside the airport - from the site after suspending the workers for alleged illegal strike actions. Around 250 airport workers have been locked out of the airport, including baggage handlers, caterers, and engineers. While no significant flight delays have been confirmed in recent days due to the dispute, air traffic disruptions are possible in the coming days and weeks as the labor dispute continues.

Context

The airport workers originally began the strike to protest sexual harassment allegations and to demand wage adjustments based on the rising cost of living. The locked-out airport workers sitting outside the airport have claimed that they are no longer striking, but are hoping to return to work, per media reports published December 28.

Advice

Individuals in Fiji are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations, prepare for associated air traffic disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.