Construction of new ATC towers at Honiara and Munda airports begins under SIRAP2, boosting aviation safety and efficiency
Construction of the new Air Traffic Control (ATC) towers at Honiara and Munda International Airports officially has commenced, marking another significant milestone under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2). This activity is funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA). The new towers will enhance aviation safety, operational efficiency, and air traffic management at two of the country’s key airports.
The design and build contract has been awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which has mobilised at both project sites. At Honiara Airport, the contractor has completed and occupied the construction camp, with workers undertaking preparatory and site establishment works ahead of major construction activities. At Munda Airport, foundation works are progressing steadily. Community awareness activities were also conducted last week to inform residents of the scope of works, construction schedule, safety considerations, and anticipated benefits.
Permanent Secretary of MCA, Alwyn Danitofea, welcomed the commencement of works, stating: “The construction of these new ATC towers is a critical step towards strengthening aviation safety and operational capacity at Honiara and Munda International Airports. These facilities will provide our air traffic controllers with modern, fit-for-purpose infrastructure that meets international aviation standards and supports the continued growth of air services in Solomon Islands” “We appreciate the support of the World Bank through SIRAP2 and the cooperation of local communities during construction and continue to ensure that safety, environmental management, and community engagement remain key priorities throughout implementation” he added.
In addition to the ATC towers, SIRAP2 is delivering a wide range of critical transport investments across the country. These include construction of Noro Roads, four new bridges in Malaita Province, upgrades of Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield in Temotu Province and Suavanao Airfield in Isabel Province, investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu provinces, ongoing maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
These investments form part of the Government’s broader commitment to improve transport connectivity, enhance safety and climate resilience, and support economic growth and service delivery across Solomon Islands.
SOURCE: SIRAP2 PRESS RELEASE
