The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has advised airlines, businesses and the travelling public that runway restrictions at Kiunga Airport will remain in place as the airport upgrade project enters its next phase.
NAC said the Kiunga Airport Upgrade Project in Western Province has reached 48% completion, with significant progress recorded on both airside and landside works.
According to NAC, airside works covering Major Operational Works Program (MOWP) Stages 1 to 6 have been completed up to the application of temporary runway line markings. The completed sections are undergoing inspections ahead of the application of permanent line markings, which are expected to be completed by the end of June.
The project will move into MOWP Stages 7 to 9 from the first week of July, with works scheduled to continue until the first week of September.
Commercial flight operations are expected to resume only after the completion of the remaining works and subject to inspections, safety assessments and commissioning approval by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea (CASA PNG).
Kiunga Airport's 1,200-metre runway remains under temporary restrictions, resulting in the continued suspension of Regular Public Transport (RPT) services, including Dash 8 aircraft operations.
However, NAC said the aerodrome will remain open to smaller general aviation aircraft operating under applicable Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), operational restrictions and safety requirements.
The corporation acknowledged the ongoing disruption to passenger travel and cargo movements into and out of Kiunga.
NAC attributed the extended restriction period primarily to prolonged dry weather conditions that have lowered river water levels, affecting the transportation and delivery of construction materials to the project site.
"The main reason for the extended restriction period is the prolonged dry season, which has resulted in low water levels and affected the procurement and delivery of construction materials to site," NAC said.
The corporation urged airline operators, businesses and the travelling public to make alternative travel and freight arrangements while works continue.
NAC said it would continue providing updates on project progress and commissioning arrangements.
The airport upgrade forms part of efforts to strengthen aviation infrastructure in Western Province and improve long-term connectivity for communities and businesses in the region.
The Kiunga Airport Upgrade Project is being implemented by NAC under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Project II (CADIP II) and is funded by the Papua New Guinea government and the Asian Development Bank.
Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dominic Kaumu said NAC appreciated the patience and cooperation of airline operators, stakeholders and the people of Western Province while the works are being completed.
