The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has advised the travelling public and stakeholders that the runway at Hoskins Airport in West New Britain will be further shortened to allow for essential upgrade works, with Stage 4 of the Method of Works Plan (MOWP) expected to commence by the end of the week, subject to the issuance of a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).
In a public advisory, NAC said the contractor began the first stage of the runway upgrade in October 2025 and has since completed Stages 2 and 3. Works continued through the festive season to ensure uninterrupted operations for Fokker and similar or smaller aircraft during the peak travel period.
“With operations now normalised outside the peak season, preparations are under way to commence Stage Four,” NAC said.
The existing runway, which measures 1,900 metres, will be shortened by 490 metres once Stage 4 begins, leaving an available operational length of 1,410 metres. NAC said this will continue to accommodate Q400, ATR, Dash 8 and similar or smaller aircraft types.
The corporation noted that the timing of the works will depend on prevailing weather conditions and that any changes to the schedule will be communicated in due course.
NAC said the upgrade is critical and will significantly enhance safety, security standards and overall operational performance at Hoskins Airport. The corporation added it is working closely with the contractor to ensure the project progresses smoothly, with minimal disruption, and is completed within the planned timeframe.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience these temporary restrictions may cause,” NAC said. “We thank the travelling public, airline operators, the business community, the people of West New Britain and Papua New Guinea for their understanding and cooperation as we progress with these important upgrade works.”
The advisory was approved for release by Dominic Kaumu, ML OBE, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Airports Corporation Ltd.
