PNG's Kagamuga Airport Upgrade to Open Door for Modern Jet Services

 Papua New Guinea's Mt Hagen  Kagamuga Airport is set for a major transformation following the commencement of a runway rehabilitation project aimed at preparing the airport for larger and more modern aircraft by the end of 2026.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) announced that construction work began on June 4 and is expected to run for approximately nine months, with the upgraded runway expected to accommodate Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 aircraft operations by December.

The project is expected to bring a major change to air travel in the Highlands Region, where Kagamuga Airport serves as the principal aviation hub for thousands of passengers, businesses and government services.

PNG's Kagamuga Airport Upgrade to Open Door for Modern Jet Services/Photo credit : Air Niugini

According to NAC, the rehabilitation works will involve an asphalt overlay of the runway, grooving, installation of new pavement markings, improvements to aircraft parking areas and upgrades to the airport's drainage system.

Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dominic Kaumu said the investment would help strengthen the country's aviation infrastructure while supporting economic activity and improving transport services.

He said the runway improvements were required to enable the safe operation of Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 aircraft into Mt Hagen by the end of the year.

Mr Kaumu said the project forms part of NAC's broader plans to develop airport facilities capable of meeting increasing passenger demand and supporting future growth across Papua New Guinea.

Construction will be carried out in 13 separate stages, allowing airport operations to continue under temporary runway restrictions. During some phases, aircraft such as Dash 8, ATR and Fokker planes will continue servicing the airport while larger jets await completion of the works.

NAC has indicated that full runway access for Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 aircraft is expected from late November and December 2026, paving the way for regular jet services into the Highlands.

“These essential works are necessary to ensure that A220 and B737 aircraft can operate into Mt Hagen Airport by December 2026,” Mr Kaumu said.

“The upgrade of the Mt Hagen's Kagamuga Airport runway to asphalt concrete overlay is among the top priorities driven by the NAC Board to create sustainable airports that meet the growing demand for air travel in the country while supporting economic growth.”

“The works will be implemented in accordance with the required standards whilst ensuring that the safety and security of operations at the airport during the period of works are maintained.”