MCA launches SIRAP2 airport asset maintenance consultancy to strengthen safety, reliability and resilience of airports
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) has officially commenced the Regional Airport Asset Maintenance consultancy under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), financed by the World Bank. This initiative is being delivered by the joint venture between Gyros Corporation and Pacific Consultants Co Ltd, following the contract signing on November 19, 2025.
Since its launch, the Consultant team has convened a kick-off meeting with representatives from MCA, the Project Support Team (PST), and Solomon Islands Airports Corporation Limited (SIACL). The team also submitted its inception report, which outlines the methodology, work plan, and coordination framework, and has completed its first field mission to Honiara and Munda Airports under Task 1.
Task 1 focuses on conducting an Asset Inventory, Condition and Criticality Assessment, and establishing a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Framework. During this phase, the team verified and structured the asset inventory for key airport systems, conducted on-site condition assessments, identified priority maintenance and reliability issues, and initiated the development of a structured KPI framework, including reliability and maintenance performance indicators. Findings from this initial field survey will form the basis for a risk-based and prioritized Asset Management Plan, aimed at strengthening the safety, reliability, and long-term resilience of Honiara and Munda Airports.
Speaking on the commencement of the consultancy, Alwyn Danitofea, MCA Permanent Secretary said, “This consultancy marks a significant milestone in ensuring the long-term sustainability and operational efficiency of our airports. The work done under this engagement will provide critical data and insights that allow us to plan maintenance and upgrades in a more structured and risk-informed way, ultimately improving safety and service for all airport users.”
The 36-month consultancy will conclude with a comprehensive final report summarizing findings, results, and lessons learned. The outcomes are expected to provide a strong and sustainable framework for enhancing airport asset maintenance systems nationwide, supporting safer, more reliable, and climate-resilient aviation services for the Solomon Islands.
Beyond the Regional Airport Asset Maintenance activities, SIRAP2 continues to deliver critical transport infrastructure nationwide. This includes the construction of Noro roads and four new bridges in Malaita; upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields; investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces; regional airport maintenance; rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of the East Road between Baratolo and Atori; and sealing of 12 kilometres of the North Road between the Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
SOURCE: Second Solomon Islands Roads & Aviation Project (SIRAP2)
