PNG Pushes Rural Connectivity with Finschafen Airstrip Upgrade Project

Improving access to remote communities remains a priority in Papua New Guinea as a new contract is signed to rehabilitate the Finschafen Airstrip in Morobe Province.

The National Airports Corporation entered into an agreement with China Railway Construction Group Co. Limited in Port Moresby, paving the way for construction works to begin under a key national infrastructure program.

 PNG Pushes Rural Connectivity with Finschhafen Airstrip Upgrade Project/Photo  by PNGNAC

The signing event brought together Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi, Morobe Governor Renbo Paita, Asian Development Bank Country Director Takafumi Kadono, and NAC Board Chairman Jacob Anga, among others.

NAC Acting CEO Dominic Kaumu said the contract is part of the Civil Aviation Development Investment Project II, which focuses on upgrading rural airstrips across the country.

He said the K12.8 million project will deliver improvements to runway strength, aircraft operating areas, and terminal facilities, including parking upgrades.

Mr Kaumu indicated that the project timeline is set at 18 months, with completion expected by November 2027.

He acknowledged funding support from the National Government and the Asian Development Bank, noting that the initiative contributes to the broader Connect PNG strategy.

Minister Goi said rural air transport remains critical for communities without road access, enabling the movement of goods, services, and people.

He also called for reforms to improve the management of rural airstrips and urged authorities to prioritise both rural and major airport upgrades to meet future demand.

“The goal is to build dozens of airstrips rather than just a few, boosting economic activity and mobility in rural areas,” he said.