Press Release
11th July 2024
Honiara International Airport Runway Upgrades Near Completion.
Upgrades to the Honiara International Airport runway and airfield ground lighting under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) are progressing steadily, with new surfacing fully completed and new lighting expected to be completed by October 2024.
The runway upgrades are one part of the World Bank-funded SBD1.1 billion Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP) and SIRAP2. The works are being implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) and will make the airport safer and more climate resilient.
The works are now 87 percent complete. The asphalt concrete overlay work for the entire runway has been completed, with permanent line markings for the runway touchdown, centrelines, and edge lines in place. The preparation and layout work for the new lighting is complete, including the installation of the transformer pits. However, work on upgrading the airfield ground lighting has been halted due to delivery delays of lights and cables, affecting the anticipated completion date.
The contractor is committed to completing the remaining works and there is a possibility of extension of time up to the end of October 2024. Therefore, the Engineer will seek formal employer’s approval to allow the contractor to complete the outstanding activities.
"I am pleased with the work done so far and thank those involved for their good work," said Alwyn Danitofea, Permanent Secretary of MCA. “The upgrades are important as they will prolong the life of Solomon Islands' main link to the world and will make air travel safer and more reliable. These improvements to Solomon Islands' major gateway will also provide benefits for tourism, fisheries, agriculture, health, and business.” he added.
SIRAP2 continues to transform selected communities in the country. Other investments under SIRAP2 include constructing four new bridges in Malaita (Kolofe1, Kolofe2, Su’u Harbor, and Bira Bridges); upgrading roads in Noro; providing upgrades to Honiara, Munda, and Santa Cruz Airports; upgrading air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces; and supporting airport maintenance.
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