Santa Cruz Airport Terminal construction reaches major milestone, with completion and handover expected in August 2026
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), through the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) and with support from the World Bank, is pleased to announce that construction of the new Santa Cruz Airport Terminal has reached a significant milestone, with all major civil, structural, architectural, and building services works now substantially completed.
This landmark investment represents a major enhancement of aviation infrastructure for Temotu Province and the Solomon Islands. Key phases of the terminal, including design and mobilization, site preparation, foundation works, soil treatment, and concrete works have been successfully delivered. Structural works such as steel and timber installation, roofing systems, skylights, gutters, and downpipes are complete, providing a fully functional terminal structure.
All internal and external finishes, including wall, ceilings, doors, windows, and decorative elements, have been finalized. Essential passenger facilities such as toilet, sinks, and water closets are installed, alongside installation two 10,000-litre water tanks, a fully operational septic system, and complete mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sanitary, and hydraulic systems. Additional infrastructure like fire alarm, furniture and fixtures, security fencing, drainage works, and an open parking area has also been completed.
Testing and commissioning works are currently 80 percent complete, with final connection to Solomon Power pending. These final steps are critical to ensuring full operational readiness and compliance with safety standards.
Permanent Secretary for MCA, Mr. Alwyn Danitofea, highlighted the achievement:
“This milestone demonstrates what can be achieved through effective collaboration, technical diligence, and a shared commitment that have driven this initiative forward. While construction is nearing completion, our priority remains ensuring that all systems are fully tested, safe, and ready provide to provide reliable services for the people of Temotu Province.”
The new terminal, together with the recently upgraded airfield, is expected to be officially handed over to MCA and the people of Temotu Province in August 2026.
Beyond this activity, SIRAP2 continues to deliver several road and aviation infrastructure investments nationwide. These include the upgrades of Suavanao Airfields, investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, construction of the new Aviation Complex Building in Honiara and Air Traffic Control Towers in Honiara and Munda, ongoing maintenance of regional airports, 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.
PRESS RELEASE
