Still No Start to Upgrade of Nusatupe Airport

Construction of the Nusatupe Airport (GZO) terminal upgrade in the Solomon Islands' Western Province is yet to start because of ongoing land tenure issues, reports Honiara’s Solomon Star newspaper.

The Western Provincial Government wants title to be transferred back to the province so it can be converted into perpetual estate ownership, a step seen as essential to avoid future land disputes.

The provincial government has already approved the construction of the new terminal facility at Nusatupe. However, the start of construction is being delayed because of the land’s current fixed term estate title.

The airport, with its 1,100 metre runway, is serviced by Solomon Airlines, who run Twin Otter services to and from Nusatupe out of Balalae (BAS), Honiara (HIR), Munda (MUA), and Seghe (EGM).

The Solomons Government wants the state-owned Solomon Islands Airports Corporation (SIAC) Limited to assume ownership and control of all the country’s airports.

“SIAC has committed to fully fund and facilitate the entire terminal upgrade at Nusatupe but insists the perpetual estate transfer must be completed before any construction begins,” said Western Provincial Secretary Patrick Toiraena.

The upgrade, first floated around seven years ago and partially-funded by the New Zealand Government, will also see lighting installed at the airport. This will allow Solomon Airlines to extend its operational hours. Other airports in line for upgrades include Seghe and Suavanao (VAO).