WORK to upgrade the Honiara International Airport runway is set to start at the end of this month.

Chinese state-owned firm, China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG), will undertake the task.

This is being funded under the second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2),  a World Bank-funded initiative that’s being implemented by the Solomon Islands Government.

A statement from SIRAP2 office said the upgrading work will see a new runway surfacing, including a Runway End Safety Areas at both ends. 

It added the existing runway ground lighting will also be upgraded with energy-efficient approach lights.

“The refurbishment and upgrade is one part of the SBD$1.1 billion SIRAP and SIRAP2 that are being financed by the World Bank through the International Development Association (IDA),” the statement said.

“These projects are being implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation and the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, with the aim to make the country’s airports safer, more efficient and more climate resilient, while also delivering important upgrades to selected roads and bridges across the country,” it added.

^{Solomon Airlines plane landed at the Henderson International Airport| Photo Credit: Solomon Airlines}

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Moses Virivolomo said the upgrading work is expected to prolong the life-span of the country’s only international airport.

‘’I am very pleased to see these upgrades move ahead which will ensure passengers, tourists, and even emergency supplies can come into our country in a safer, more efficient and more reliable way,” Virivolomo added.

He said CRCEG has already assembled a workforce, and that equipment are being delivered to the site.

Other works under SIRAP and SIRAP2 include upgrades to Munda Airport and Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield, along with improvements for seven bridges in Malaita, and roads in Noro, Western Province.

Recently, Honiara International Airport saw the completion of the Japanese-funded modern departure terminal.

The arrival lounge remains in the old terminal, which was also funded by Japan.

The domestic terminal has since been moved into the old international terminal building.

^{Banner Image| Credit: Solomon Airlines}