BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) has proposed an upgrade of airports in the country.
This includes upgrade of the Honiara International airport and rehabilitation of airfields in the provinces.
The program became an integral part of the ministry’s decentralization policy to improve the aviation sector across the country.
Speaking in parliament last week, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communication and Aviation Fredrick Kologeto, highlighted the proposal and benefit it would deliver for the country.
He said the national government through the ministry is closing on a negotiation towards a project to upgrade the Honiara International Airport.
“The project will include lengthening and widening of the runway to reach 2.8 or 3 kilometres. It will also look at improving the status of the terminal.
“This is vital so that bigger planes like A370 that accommodates 400 to 500 passengers can land at the Honiara international airport.
“The terminal upgrade is also important so that we can be able to accommodate three or four flights simultaneously. This is a challenge we’re facing,” Kologeto stated.
He also noted the government wants the ministry to accomplish the plan before the country’s 50th anniversary in 2028.
In the meantime, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted current upgrade and rehabilitation program on provincial airfields across the country.
He said the tar-seal of Taro airfield is in the final stage and is expected to be complete early next year. Tar-sealing of Suavanao airfield is set to begin next year, including other airfields the government sees fit for tar-sealing.
Kologeto further mentioned that tender for the rehabilitation of Avu-Avu airport in Guadalcanal province has already been awarded and rehabilitation of Atoifi airfield in Malaita province is coming up.
He also highlighted a MOU signed between the ministry and landowners of Malaita Outer Islands to establish airfield in Lord Howe.
Moreover, the DPM said scoping and coasting for a new airfield in Vanikoro, Temotu province has already been done with the project soon to be implemented.
Kologeto said the Ministry of Communication and Aviation encourages decentralization of infrastructure development especially airports and telecommunication across the country.
He also said these infrastructures are also important to support the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to implement its plans and program especially to promote tourism in the country.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
