The National Airports Corporation (NAC) will soon commence a major upgrade of the Mt Hagen (Kagamuga) Airport runway, replacing the existing bituminous seal with a durable asphalt concrete overlay.
This K39.4 million investment, fully funded by NAC, will strengthen the runway pavement to accommodate the Boeing 737 and the newly acquired Air Niugini’s Airbus A220 fleet.
The A220 has a seating capacity of 138, compared to the F100 with seating capacity of 100. This upgrade will ensure safer, more reliable operations to meet current demand as well as future growth in passenger and cargo.
The project was awarded to China Harbor Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) in November 2025, with construction set to begin this month (April, 2026) and scheduled for completion by December 2026.
Civil Aviation Minister, Wake Goi will officiate the groundbreaking ceremony today, signifying the government’s commitment to positioning Mt Hagen Airport as a critical hub serving six highlands provinces and the surrounding regions.
The airport had faced operational challenges in recent years due to runway surface defects and deterioration. This upgrade will provide a long-term solution, restoring full capacity for larger aircraft and enhancing passenger experience.
Looking ahead, Mt Hagen Airport is one of 4 major national airports including Nadzab, Port Moresby and Tokua which are earmarked for further expansion under the Asian Development Bank’s CADIP III program and Japan International Cooperation Agency- (JICA). Feasibility studies for Mt Hagen airport, are underway for a runway extension and new terminal facilities, with construction expected to begin in 2028.
In addition to Mt Hagen Airport, the Port Moresby International Airport, Domestic Terminal Building, Apron and Airport Access Road reconfiguration and upgrade as well as the Tokua airport runway extension and associated airside works will be carried out under CADIP III, anticipated to commence in Tuesday 28th April 20262027 whilst Tokua airport new terminal and associated landside works is expected to commence in 2030 under JICA funding.
The focus on these major airports, reflects NAC’s strategic plan to develop and transform key national hubs into sustainable airports, under the leadership of the NAC Board.
Approved for release
Dominic Kaumu, ML OBE Acting Managing Director and CEO National Airports Corporation