The National Airports Corporation (NAC) advises the airline operators, business community, traveling public and the stakeholders that the upgrade of the Kieta (Aropa) Airport in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville is well underway with 52 % physical progress of works at both the landside and airside. The runway will be further shortened to allow for the commencement of planned Method of Works Plan (MOWP) Stages Six (6) and Seven (7) on the 06th of May to the 18th of September, 2026 with a possibility of extension to October 2026.
The contractor has completed the MOWP Stages One (1), Two (2), Three (3), Four (4) and Five (5) and is preparing to commence works on Stage Six (6) and Stage Seven (7). When Stage 6 and 7 commence, the runway length will be reduced to 365 meters (out of a total of a length of 1,525 meters). During this time, Regular Passenger Transport (RPT) aircraft including Dash 8 -100 series will no longer be able to operate as there will be ongoing works on the runway, taxiway, apron and the parking bays.
The upgrade works is significant in enhancing a long-term safety, security and continued operation of the Kieta (Aropa) Airport. Works on the runway is anticipated to be completed by the end of October 2026.
The traveling public and the business community in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville are encouraged to take note of the key dates mentioned above and to plan ahead. Work schedule remain subject to prevailing weather conditions and any other updates will be communicated as work progresses.
NAC acknowledges that shortening of the runway from May to October 2026 will affect the airline operations, movement of passengers and cargoes and business activities in and out of Kieta Airport. However, it is also essential for the general public to note that NAC has a mandate to carry out these critical upgrades to maintain safety and security standards at its airports throughout PNG.
Moreover, NAC apologizes for any inconvenience these temporary restrictions may cause and calls for all stakeholders and the people of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and Papua New Guinea for patience and support.
Approved for Release,
Dominic Kaumu, ML OBE – Acting Managing Director/CEO National Airports Corporation Ltd