SIRAP2 advances major airport upgrades at Henderson, boosting aviation safety and services in Solomon Islands
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), is pleased to report significant progress on two major aviation infrastructure investments currently under construction at Henderson International Airport: the Aviation Complex Building and the Air Traffic Control Tower.
Both investments are being implemented under SIRAP2 with financial support from the World Bank. The Aviation Complex Building is being constructed by China Railway Construction Engineering Group Co., Ltd. (CRCEG), while the Air Traffic Control Tower is being constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). Egis Asia is providing construction supervision services for both contracts.
On Monday, 6 July 2026, members of the SIRAP2 Project Support Team visited both construction sites at Henderson International Airport to assess progress and engage with the contractors and the construction supervision consultant.
The team was encouraged by the significant progress achieved under both contracts and commended the contractors, site workers, and construction supervision consultant for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to delivering quality infrastructure.
Permanent Secretary of MCA, Mr. Alwyn Danitofea, commended the progress, stating:
“The Aviation Complex Building and the Air Traffic Control Tower at Henderson International Airport are strategic investments that will significantly improve aviation operations, safety, and service delivery in Solomon Islands. These facilities will provide modern infrastructure to support airport management and air traffic services while helping ensure that our aviation sector continues to meet international standards and the growing demands of the travelling public.”
In addition to the Henderson Air Traffic Control Tower, another Air Traffic Control Tower is currently under construction at Munda International Airport in Western Province under SIRAP2, within the same contract with CCECC. Together, these investments reflect the Government’s commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure across the country and improving the safety, efficiency, and reliability of air transport services for all Solomon Islanders.
“We are grateful for the continued support of the World Bank and acknowledge the hard work of the contractors and construction supervision consultant who are contributing to the successful delivery of these important investments. Their efforts are helping build infrastructure that will benefit the people of Solomon Islands and the world for generations to come,” Mr. Danitofea added.
The Aviation Complex Building will provide modern office accommodation and operational facilities for key aviation agencies, while the new Air Traffic Control Tower at Henderson will enhance air traffic management capabilities at the country’s main international gateway.
Once completed, these investments will improve airport operations, strengthen aviation safety, and support the efficient delivery of air transport services throughout Solomon Islands. They will also contribute to the country’s long-term economic development by facilitating safer, more reliable, and efficient air connectivity between provinces and international destinations.
SIRAP2 remains committed to ensuring the successful completion of these investments and looks forward to the lasting benefits they will bring to the people of Solomon Islands for many years to come.
PRESS RELEASE
