Progress continues on Honiara Aviation Complex under SIRAP2, with 13% completion and support from the World Bank.
Steady progress is being made on the design and construction of the Honiara Aviation Complex Building, a key component of the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2). The project is led by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) with support from the World Bank.
The contractor, China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG), has completed the workers’ resting area and storage facilities, as well as installed site noticeboards. Construction of the site office is progressing, and temporary utilities, including power and water, are nearing completion.
On the technical side, the completion of the Geotechnical Investigation Report represents an important milestone in ensuring the building’s structural integrity and long-term resilience. Final design documents have been submitted and are under review by the supervising consultant, Egis. Meanwhile, foundation excavation works have begun, marking the transition to structural construction and bringing the overall progress of the design-and-build contract to 13 percent.
Next steps include final stakeholder approval of the design package, soil replacement in line with geotechnical specifications, and the start of concrete works for the building’s foundation.
MCA Permanent Secretary Alwyn Danitofea said the new aviation complex will house the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, the Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands (CAASI), and Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine services. He noted that the new facility will support faster and more efficient aviation operations.
The Honiara Aviation Complex is considered a critical investment in improving the overall effectiveness of aviation services at Honiara International Airport.
Beyond this project, SIRAP2 is also advancing other infrastructure works including the construction of the Honiara Rescue and Fire Services Station, improvements to Noro roads, four new bridges in Malaita, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports, Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields, and installation of air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu provinces. The program also includes the rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of the East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and sealing of 12 kilometres of the North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
SOURCE: SIRAP PRESS RELEASE
