Solomon Airlines re-opens Suavanao Airport

Suavanao Airfield in Isabel Province was re-opened last Saturday following the successful rehabilitation of the airport’s deteriorating runway which has forced the Government to close it in September this year.

Representatives of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), the Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands (CAASI) and Solomon Airlines conducted a test flight using a Twin Otter aircraft on Saturday 24th November 2018 to ascertain the readiness of the airport to accommodate flights.

While minor tidy-up work was noted, the pavement rehabilitation was a success and the MCA with CAASI endorsement reopened the airport and Solomon Airlines has re-commence commercial services to Suavanao Airport on Monday 26th November 2018.

Services to this airport will operate daily from Monday to Sunday between Honiara and Suavanao.

Speaking during the re-opening ceremony of the airport, Permanent Secretary for MCA Moses Virivolomo said he was very happy to see the airport re-opened for the travelling public and overseas visitors to return to Papatura Island Retreat and beyond.

For the success of the Suavanao airport, PS Virivolomo thanked his hard working Airport Management team at MCA lead by Chief Operating Officer Mr Sylvester Kenatsi, the Premier of Isabel Province James Habu for assisting the MCA, the Senior Management team for Mas Pacific International Ltd for their great contribution as part of their community service obligations in the province and Papatura Island Retreat owner Peter Blanche for the cooperation in getting the job done on site.

The re-opening of this airport is a huge opportunity for Solomon Airlines to increase market and business opportunities as well as to boost tourism in Isabel Province.