Papua New Guinea’s aviation sector is set for a sweeping transformation, with Aviation Minister Wake Goi announcing multi-billion Kina investments to modernise airports and expand their role as economic drivers.
Goi said the redevelopment programme will focus on five priorities: runway expansions, aircraft parking bays, infrastructure upgrades, terminal modernisation and the creation of a commercial “Airport City” precinct.
Runway Expansions
A central priority is the expansion of Jacksons International Airport’s runways. Goi confirmed that two additional runways will be built alongside the existing one to ensure uninterrupted flight operations.
“The need for additional runways was highlighted by a recent incident involving a Boeing 737 that experienced a tyre issue upon landing,” he explained.
The runway project, valued at 200 to 300 million Kina (USD 48–72 million), will be open to bidders. Similar upgrades are also planned for airports including Mount Hagen to accommodate larger aircraft.
Aircraft Parking Bays, Terminal Redevelopment
The extension of aircraft parking bays represents one of the largest investments, with bidding estimated at 1 to 1.5 billion Kina (USD 240–360 million). The expansion will extend the parking area toward the Helifix site and require significant earthworks, including levelling part of a mountain.
Jacksons International Airport’s infrastructure is also slated for full-scale redevelopment. Plans include a new two-storey building linking the international and domestic terminals, a 20–30 metre extension of the VIP lounge and a similar extension of the economy lounge.
“The terminals will be redesigned with check-in counters downstairs and departure gates upstairs, while the number of departure gates will increase to between 8 and 10,” Goi said.
Several outdated buildings will be relocated or rebuilt to create a more professional appearance, with facilities such as the maintenance hangar identified for relocation.
Airport City Vision
The centrepiece of the long-term vision is the development of an “Airport City,” a commercial hub expected to attract hotels, shops and services extending as far as the Gateway Hotel. Goi said the project will require 3 to 4 billion Kina (USD 720–960 million) in investment.
“The National Airports Corporation will manage this development by collecting taxes and leasing land, while land titleholders will receive a percentage return on their investment,” he explained. “As revenues grow, NAC will be able to repay investors over time.”
Investor confidence has already been signalled, with one company offering to transfer 4 billion Kina (USD 960 million) to support the Airport City development.
Economic Impact
Goi stressed that the airport upgrade programme is not only about infrastructure renewal but also about economic growth. By opening the projects to private capital, he said, the initiative is designed to strengthen PNG’s wider economy.
“These upgrades will not only increase passenger and cargo capacity but also open up opportunities in tourism, trade and property development,” Goi said.
“The Airport City concept, in particular, will attract commercial activity, create jobs and position Port Moresby as a regional hub for business and travel.”
According to Goi, the investment will modernise the country’s main gateways while creating sustainable returns for investors and long-term benefits for the national economy.
