Solomon Airlines launches direct Honiara–Port Moresby flights, boosting trade, tourism and regional connectivity
Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency William Soaki attended the official launch of the inaugural Solomon Airlines direct service between Honiara and Port Moresby at Jacksons International Airport on Tuesday, 7 July 2026.
The official launch was also attended by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Airports Corporation of Papua New Guinea, Mr Manuai Kametan; the Acting Papua New Guinea High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Ms Vaburi Riu; and the Solomon Airlines Commercial Manager, Mr John Wopereis.
The introduction of the new weekly direct service, operating every Tuesday, marks an important milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea and connecting into Asia. The direct route is expected to enhance trade, tourism, business, investment, education, and people-to-people exchanges.
In his remarks, High Commissioner Soaki warmly welcomed the commencement of the direct service, describing it as a significant achievement that further strengthens the longstanding friendship between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
“This new direct connection is more than just an air service, it is another bridge linking our two Melanesian nations. It creates greater opportunities for our people to connect, strengthens family and cultural ties, and opens new pathways for future generations through increased cooperation and shared prosperity,” the High Commissioner said.
His Excellency also congratulated Solomon Airlines for its vision and commitment in re-establishing the direct route between the two capitals.
“This is an important investment in the future of our region. By bringing our people closer together, the service will create new opportunities for tourism, trade, business, investment, and broader regional cooperation,” he added.
The High Commissioner noted that the occasion held special significance as the inaugural flight coincided with the 48th Anniversary of the Independence of Solomon Islands.
“As we commemorate forty-eight years of nationhood, we do so with gratitude for our journey and confidence in our future. It is especially fitting that on this very day we open another gateway connecting our people with one of our closest neighbours. There could be no better way to celebrate our Independence than by strengthening the bonds of friendship, and connectivity between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea,” he said.
Passengers travelling on the inaugural flight were presented with commemorative certificates to mark the historic occasion. Members of the Solomon Islands media also travelled on the inaugural service to witness and report on this significant milestone.
The Solomon Islands High Commission welcomed the commencement of the direct air service as another practical demonstration of the growing bilateral relationship between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote closer regional integration and people-to-people connections.
PRESS RELEASE
