Unexploded WWII Bombs Disrupt Nauru Airport Runway Resurfacing

The contractor undertaking the runway resurfacing project at Nauru International Airport (INU) has cut the number of “identified anomalies” from 237 to 96 following an evaluation by unexploded ordnance experts.

The Japanese military built Nauru’s first runway during World War II, basing Mitsubishi G4M Bettys and A6M Zero fighter aircraft there. The airport was later heavily bombed by US Forces.

The original airport is now the site of Nauru’s modern-day airport and unexploded ordinance, a catch-all phrase for bombs, mines, projectiles, mortars, grenades, and bullets that did not detonate when deployed, is regularly uncovered.

“It is important to note that these 96 sites are considered anomalies, not confirmed unexploded ordinance,” reads an April 4, 2025, social media post by Nauru’s Transport Department. “Further investigations will determine if any of these anomalies are unexploded ordinance.”

Last month, AeroSouthPacific reported on the resurfacing of Nauru’s 2,150-metre runway and other airport upgrades. Downer Group has the contract to undertake the resurfacing project. The runway was last resurfaced in 1992. The current resurfacing will extend its life by another 25 – 30 years. The reduction in the number of identified anomalies followed Downer Group resurveying the airport’s grounds.

“To ensure safety during investigation works, Nauru Airport will be closed for daytime operations from Monday to Saturday,” the social media post adds. “Flight operations will continue during the evening to early morning hours.

Nauru Airlines, the only scheduled carrier flying into the airport, has already amended its timetables to reflect this requirement/

“If unexploded ordnance is confirmed during the investigation, airport operations may be temporarily suspended for four to five days to ensure safety," the Transport Department adds. "As a contingency, arrangements will be in place for emergency medical evacuation and delivery of essential supplies using small aircraft capable of operating on shorter runway lengths (minimum 1200 metre), subject to the availability of a partially operable runway.”

Photo: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.