The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has advised travelers and stakeholders that the Hoskins Airport runway in West New Britain province will be further shortened to allow for vital upgrade works, with the next phase scheduled to begin later this week, subject to the issuance of a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).

The upgrade project, which began in October 2025, has already progressed through Stages One, Two and Three.

These works continued through the festive season to ensure uninterrupted operations for Fokker and similar or smaller aircraft during the peak travel period.

With flight operations now returning to usual levels, the contractor is preparing to commence Stage Four of the project.

Once this begins, the runway length will be reduced by 490 metres, from its original 1,900 metres to 1,410 metres.

NAC confirmed that the remaining runway length will still accommodate Q400, ATR, Dash 8 and similar or smaller aircraft types, allowing continued air services to and from Hoskins Airport.

The NAC noted that the timing of the works will depend on weather conditions, and any changes will be communicated to stakeholders as needed.

According to NAC, the runway upgrade is a critical project that will significantly improve safety, security standards and overall airport operations at Hoskins.

The corporation is working closely with the contractor to ensure the works progress smoothly, with minimal delays, and are completed on schedule.

NAC has apologized for any inconvenience caused by the temporary runway restrictions and thanked travelers, airline operators, the business community, the people of West New Britain and the wider PNG public for their understanding and cooperation as the upgrade works continue.