Port Moresby’s Jackson International Airport will undergo a major redevelopment to cater for the increased activities post Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
This was announced recently by the Minister for Aviation Wake Goi, who said it will be a multi- billion-kina project the National Government will undertake.
To fund this transformation, the government is seeking between K1 to K4 billion in investment for an “Airport City” concept.
Minister Goi explained that investors would have the opportunity to fund specific components, whether it be the new runways, terminals, or the broader airport city project. He stressed that opportunities would also be created for Small to
Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to operate within the new airport precinct.
The centerpiece of the plan is a significant expansion of the airport’s capacity. This includes the construction of a second runway designed to handle domestic traffic, which could feature a new terminal and parking bay to manage high-traffic periods.
He said the existing domestic terminal is slated for a complete overhaul, to be rebuilt as a two-story facility with seven to ten gates and an extended VIP lounge for both Air Niugini and PNG Air passengers. For international operations, the minister detailed a plan to
create a new aircraft parking bay by excavating a nearby mountain, a move intended to significantly improve the international arrivals experience.
A key feature of the economic plan is the development of modern storage and cargo facilities. This will enable fresh produce from centers like Mt. Hagen and Lae to be stored in Port Moresby before being exported to major international markets such as
Hong Kong, Singapore, Manila, and Australia.
Expressing a strong sense of urgency, the minister stated he did not want to waste any more time. He also issued a stern warning against corruption, declaring that any aerodrome land acquired through bribery will have its title forfeited and that existing leases on improperly acquired land will be revoked.
“We must give back to this country and the economy of this country, we must not rob our country,” he declared, adding that laws concerning revenue collection from lands managed by the National Airports Corporation (NAC) will also be reviewed.
The minister’s comments came during the closing of the recent 2nd Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Summit in Port Moresby city.