Rabaul Tokua Airport Runway Repairs Impacts Air Niugini Operations
March 6, 2024
Rabaul, Papua New Guinea – 01/03/2024
Tokua Airport, a crucial desnaon on Air Niugini’s network, is undergoing significant runway repairs causing a substantial reduction in operating length of the runway. This will further limit aircraft operations for the next 4 to 5 months. The decision, while necessary for infrastructure improvements, will inevitably lead to major unavoidable disruptions in passenger and cargo services.
The reduction of the runway to just 850 meters will pose operational challenges, impacting Air Niugini’s ability to operate at full capacity. Air Niugini has been forced to operate a reduced service to Rabaul since May 2023, which is the last me the Fokker jets were able to land at Tokua, due to the poor state of the airport runway. The start of the repair work has been delayed unl now.
“We understand the inconvenience this may cause to our passengers and cargo clients,” said Gary Seddon, Acing Chief Executive Officer at Air Niugini. “However, safety remains our top priority, and we are committed to cooperating with the authorities to ensure that necessary repairs and upgrades are completed efficiently.”
Air Niugini emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough engineering and geotechnical surveys to ensure that the infrastructure upgrades not only meet the current operational requirements but also accommodate future aircraft.
“Air Niugini hopes that the repairs and upgrades consider the future of air transport to East New Britain and are not just another quick fix. The runway was restricted for repairs in 2021 in the same area, and it was hoped that would be the last of the disruptions to services. NAC allowed heavier aircraft to service the airport. The runway is now restricted again for repairs.”
“Rabaul is a gem in Papua New Guinea’s tourism landscape, and its potential for growth is immense,” continued Seddon. “It is imperative that the airport’s infrastructure, including runway specifications, landing lights, navigation systems, and terminal facilies, align with the growth trajectory of the region.”
Rabaul serves as one of Air Niugini’s busiest destinations, playing a vital role in connecting East New Britain to the rest of Papua New Guinea and the world. The reduction in runway capacity is undoubtedly a setback for both the airline and the local community.
Air Niugini remains committed to serving Rabaul and assures its passengers and stakeholders that it will work diligently to minimize disruptions and resume full operations once the NAC project is complete.
Air Niugini Corporate Communications
01st March 2024