The people of Milne Bay province can expect work on their Gurney Airport runway to commence in January 2025, to start the New Year. According to the National Airports Corporation (NAC), the work on the airside of the Gurney Airport is part of the NAC airport upgrade works under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Project II (CADIP II). According to NAC acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Dominic Kaumu, this transformative project includes the resurfacing of the existing runway with hot- mixed asphalt and the upgrading of associated facilities to meet international safety and operational standards. “This work is expected to commence in January 2025 and run through to July 2025, subject to weather and or any unforeseen event that may affect the commencement and progress.” The traveling public have been informed as well that during this period of work on the airside, travelers may experience some disruptions, including the temporary reduction in aircraft sizes servicing Gurney Airport. NAC acknowledges that these adjustments may pose inconveniences, but they are necessary to ensure the timely and successful delivery of a safer and more efficient airport for the region. Nevertheless, the NAC stated that works will be undertaken in such as manner and timing where Regular Passenger Transport services into and out of Gurney Airport are not affected too much. The benefits of these upgrades, this including the initial work in 2024 with staff housing, terminal building works and fencing, will be felt for years to come, enabling Gurney Airport to serve as a critical gateway for economic growth, tourism, and improved connectivity for the people of Milne Bay province.