BY NED GAGAHE
A new Rescue Fire Service Station at Honiara International Airport was officially handed over yesterday, marking a major milestone in strengthening aviation safety in Solomon Islands.
The state-of-the-art modern facility is part of the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA).
Construction was undertaken by China Railway Civil Engineering Group, with supervision by Egis.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), Alwyn Danitofea, said the new station will significantly boost emergency response readiness and enhance safety for air travel.
“The new facility we are here to witness its handing over will significantly strengthen Solomon Islands Airport Corporation Limited’s capacity and capability to maintain safety of passengers, visitors, and vital infrastructures,” he said.
The handover ceremony was officiated by MCA Minister, Alfred Tuasulia, as Guest of Honour, and attended by senior government officials, development partners, and representatives from the Chinese Embassy.
Minister Tuasulia said the new Rescue Fire Service Complex will serve as the operational base for a team of highly trained aviation firefighters dedicated to responding to emergencies.
“Rescue and firefighting are a critical component of any emergency response plan, with the primary objective of saving lives in the event of an aircraft accident within or near the airport,” he said.
He added that the modern facility provides an enhanced safety net for travellers and is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support efficient emergency response operations.
The new station also offers improved working conditions for rescue personnel, including dedicated training classrooms, a fully equipped gym, and better storage and maintenance areas for firefighting vehicles and equipment.
“With this new facility, the Honiara Airport Rescue Fire Services will achieve faster emergency response times, enhanced training capacity, and improved operational readiness,” Minister Tuasulia said.
The ceremony included a dedication prayer, ribbon cutting, presentation of gifts to project partners, and a guided tour of the facility.
Also, present was World Bank Country Representative Bernard Harborne.
The project is part of SIRAP2, which continues to deliver key infrastructure upgrades across Solomon Islands, including roads, bridges, and improvements to provincial airports and airfields.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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