Upgrade work at the Labasa Airport to cater for night landing is near completion.

Civil Aviation Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum confirms that work at the airport is expected to be completed next month.

Sayed-Khaiyum says the upgrade will also grant a same day return flight from Labasa to Suva.

In an effort to create a massive economic flow in the rural and maritime areas, Sayed-Khaiyum says they will also open the new Rotuma Airport next month.

He adds the newly upgraded airport in Labasa and Rotuma will also open doors for tourism growth in the outer islands.