MCA Highlights Airspace Control and Infrastructure Plans to Public Accounts Committee

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The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) presented its ambitious plans to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), underlining the development of Solomon Islands’ aviation infrastructure and the nation’s readiness to take control of its upper airspace.

MCA reported utilizing 60 percent of its allocated budget, with 80 percent of its development budget already committed. These funds focus on critical aviation projects, including the rehabilitation of Ramata and other provincial airstrips. The Ministry expects budget implementation to surpass 80 percent upon the Ministry of Finance’s disbursement of remaining funds this year.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Alwyn Danitofea, revealed that in 2025, MCA plans to streamline its activities by grouping its initiative into three components: The Communication Program, the International Airport Program, and the Provincial Airport Program.

Historically, aviation development has focused primarily on Honiara’s international airport. However, the Ministry is shifting its emphasis to managing the Solomon Islands’ upper airspace, which is aligned with the government’s broader aviation reform agenda.

Solomon Airlines lands at Fera Airport, Buala, Isabel Province.

He said the Ministry has embarked on a significant project to regain control of the nation’s upper airspace, which a service provider in Australia currently manages. Following site visits and due diligence, the Ministry received Cabinet approval to establish a committee tasked with formulating a comprehensive plan to achieve this milestone within five years.

He said the Ministry will prioritize several critical upgrades to Honiara International Airport. Plans include expanding the old domestic terminal to accommodate 600 passengers, adding two aero-bridges, and Expanding the runway to 2,800 meters to support long-haul flights.

The Ministry also focuses on provincial airports, categorizing its efforts into three areas:

  • upgrades, Assessment, and profiling of existing airstrips to determine those requiring immediate attention.
  • Reopening: Initiating discussions to reopen AvuAvu Airport, Russell Island Airstrip, and Ngorangora in Kirakira. Funding constraints have delayed travel for site assessments.
  • Greenfield Projects: Developing new airstrips based on cost-benefit analysis and collaboration with provincial governments. Guadalcanal Province, in particular, is contributing engineers and safeguards to reduce costs and enhance community engagement.

He explained to PAC that the Ministry will continue collaborating with bilateral and multilateral partners, including the World Bank, DFAT, and MFAT, to support its infrastructure goals. These partnerships will play a vital role in ensuring the successful execution of provincial airport programs.

With plans to modernize infrastructure, reclaim control of its airspace, and enhance connectivity across the Solomon Islands, the Ministry of Communication and Aviation’s initiatives promise significant benefits for the nation’s economy and development.

These efforts will strengthen Solomon Islands’ position in the Pacific’s aviation sector, ensuring a more efficient and self-reliant future. 

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