Usually Ana sport runway is just that, but that is not the case in Tuvalu where the Funafuti Airport Runway is also not only a major road for the island capital, but also quite the social hub.
So, what is it that makes said runway and indeed airport so unique globally? Lets take a look.
Putting the FUN in Funafuti
Tuvalu seems to have a lot of luck when it comes to acronyms and abbreviations for their nation, with the .TV CCLTD moniker being one of their principal earners. Similar it would appear has occurred with their airport with Funafuti getting the 3 letter abbreviation of FUN.
Funafuti Airport is the main entry point to Tuvalu and serves as the country’s only international airport. The airstrip, originally built during World War II by the U.S. military, is small and functional, handling just a few flights a week. Outside of flight times, the runway becomes a community space where locals play sports and socialize.
The terminal is basic but serves its purpose, reflecting the relaxed pace of life in Tuvalu. With limited air traffic, the airport provides a quiet and straightforward travel experience, connecting this remote island nation to the rest of the world.
There are just four flights per week, with all of them being from Suva courtesy of Fiji Airways. Previously there was also a flight from Kiribati, but alas these days have passed.
Doing sport on the Funafuti Airport Runway
Aside from the road and driving the most notable thing that happens on the Funafuti Airport Runway is sport, with hordes of youngsters taking over the area just before nightfall. All manor of codes are practiced here such as Rugby Union, Rugby League and soccer, of which Tuvalu are pretty good. In fact I have the plan to have them (hopefully) play against Nauru and Kiribati.
Why is it used? Well quite simply because there really is no alternative place to go. And while it must be tough to get tackled on a runway it does show the forthright attitude of Tuvaluans with regards to making the best of things.
Eating and drinking on Funafuti Airport Runway
After sport the next major use for the area around the runway is peoples houses, but there are also a fair few places of entertainment as well. These include a really great street food place that I was only to docker recently.
Said establishment smelt good and was seemingly saving up street fare, which led me to stop. For $10 AUD I was served a huge portion of rice together with chicken and a saveloy. Tis reminded me a bit of Tarawa street food, although very much with its own kick on things.
THE Funafuti Nightclub
While new bars have been open and closing over the many years that we have come here there has been one real constant and that has been the nightclub. Said establishment is a bit of an island institution and features a pool room, dancing room, as well as a fairly spacious outdoor smoking area.
Is it a bit grimy? Yes it sure is, but if you need a late night drink when you are in Funafuti then this is THE option. I personally bumped into the workers from my hotel who were more than happy to party with a client.
And the location? Literally right at the bottom of then airport runway and just before the crossroads leading towards the other side of the island.
And it is all these things that truly make the Funafuti Airport Runway perhaps one of the most interesting and unique in the world.
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