Suavanao Airport in its current state.
Suavanao Airfield Awaits Runway Upgrading
Suavanao Airfield in Isabel Province is awaiting the upgrading of its runway as part of the Government’s continued efforts to improve air connectivity and access to essential services across Solomon Islands.
The upgrading of Suavanao Airfield is an important development for the Provincial Government of Isabel (IPG), the people of Havulei ward living in the surrounding communities close to where the Suavanao Airfield is situated as well as people from other parts of Isabel. A safer and improved runway will support more reliable air services and make it easier for people to travel for healthcare, education, businesses and other important activities.
Suavanao Airfield is strategically important because of its location and its potential to enhance access to air transport services to communities in Isabel. However, for the airfield to fully serve the people, its runway and other airport facilities need to be upgraded and improved to modern standards.
For the Provincial Government of Isabel, the upgrading of Suavanao Airfield will support the province’s plans for better transport, economic growth and improved public services. A modernized airport will make it easier for Ministries of the Central Government, Prominent Investors, Development Partners, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and other service providers to reach rural and remote communities in that part of Isabel Province.
In forecast, once the Suavanao Provincial Airport is upgraded and enhanced into a more modern airport, it has the potential to boost a number of economic activities. These include agriculture, fisheries, small businesses, tourism, trade and the transportation of local products. Farmers and fishers could have better opportunities to move fresh produce and seafood to be marketed in Honiara, Buala etc. Local businesses could benefit from increased movement of customers, suppliers and goods.
Tourism is another area that could benefit significantly. Improved air access could make it easier for visitors to travel to Isabel and explore its natural and cultural attractions. This could create opportunities for accommodation providers, tour guides, OBM transport owners, handicraft producers, local food marketers and other community-based businesses.
A modernized Suavanao airport could also encourage greater investment in Isabel Province particularly in the Havulei ward where the airport is located. Improved transport infrastructure can give businesses and investors more confidence to establish or expand their commercial activities. This can contribute to employment opportunities and create new sources of income for local communities.
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation is working in collaboration with relevant stakeholders such as the Ministry of Infrastructure development (MID), the Ministry of Agriculture and Live Stock (MAL), the Ministry of Forestry and Research (MFR), Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey (MLHS), the Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project 2 (SIRAP 2), Egis Co; Ltd, to progress the site surveying assessment, the planning and preparations and the tender bidding process required to identify a contractor who will take up the sole responsibility to work on the Suavanao Airfield Runway Upgrading Project.
Once all necessary arrangements are completed, work on the runway upgrading will proceed. Hopefully, work on the project should begin on October, 2026 and will continue for a time period of 18 months which is 1 year 6 months. The upgrading of Suavanao airfield is expected to be completed by March, 2028, if work on the project runs smoothly. The Ministry will continue to provide updates to the public as the project progresses.
The upgrading of Suavanao Airfield is more than simply improving a runway. It is an investment in the future of Isabel Province and in the people who live and work in Isabel. It is an investment in connectivity, opportunity and accessibility to essential Government services.
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation remains committed to improving aviation infrastructure and ensuring that more Solomon Islanders can benefit from safe, reliable and accessible air transport services.
Project Support Team Officer of SIRAP 2, Tino Tingi’ia indicating where to sign in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to property owner, Mr. Kingsley Tugumana. Witnessing the MOA signing is MCA’s Newton Tonawane.
The Officers conducting a meeting at Baolo Community in Havulei ward. The meeting was conducted purposely to inform and update the people about the soon coming project to upgrade and modernized the Suavanao Provincial Airfield. Baolo Community is one of the biggest close by communities to the Suavanao Airport.
Baolo Community Men attending the meeting.
Women of Baolo Community attending the meeting.
Men listening and asking questions – Baolo Community
Officers conducting another meeting at Kolopakisa Community also in Havulei ward. Kolopakisa like Baolo Community is also another big close by community to the Suavanao Airport. Again the meeting is used to inform and update the people of Kolopakisa about the Suavanao Airport Runway Upgrading Project.
SIRAP 2, PST Officer- Tino Tingi’ia delivering important information and updates about the Upgrading Project to the people of Kolopakisa Community.
Kolopakisa men taking note of the information and updates concerning when the Suavanao Airport Runway Upgrading Project will start and how long it will take to complete the Project.
Kolopakisa men attending the meeting
Women of Kolopakisa Community at the meeting.
Women and girls also attending the meeting – Kolopakisa Community
The Solomon Airlines Agent Office situated at the Eastern End of the Airport.
A snap-shot of Suavanao Airport from its western end looking towards the eastern end of the Airport.