The Jackson’s Domestic Terminal in Port Moresby is undergoing a massive refurbishment that will be done in four phases.
The multi-billion-kina Redevelopment Programme was launched in Port Moresby by the National Airports Corporation (NAC) in partnership with AG Investment Limited and other stakeholders.
It will be delivered in four major phases over the next seven years and represents one of the largest aviation infrastructure investments in Papua New Guinea’s history.
Prime Minister James Marape stated at the launch that the redevelopment is a transformational investment that will position Papua New Guinea as a stronger aviation, tourism, trade, and investment hub for the Asia-Pacific region.
“Every visitor, investor, tourist, and business traveler forms their first impression of Papua New Guinea here. We, therefore, have a responsibility to build a world-class gateway that reflects the confidence, potential, and aspirations of our country,” said Marape.
Phase one includes the extension of 110 meters at the domestic terminal to accommodate the increase in the number of passengers, upgrading of airfield ground lighting, and power supply systems.
Marape said the ongoing construction activity and redevelopment work at the country’s busiest international gateway reflect the Government’s commitment to modernizing critical national infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing economy and a rapidly expanding aviation sector.
“The progress our people are now witnessing at Jacksons International Airport is a clear sign that Papua New Guinea is building for the future. Jacksons International Airport is more than an airport. It is the front door to our nation,” said Marape.
Phase two of the redevelopment will include the installation of new check-in counters, aerobridges, baggage handling systems, and the inclusion of VIP lounges.
Marape stated that the project aligns with the Government’s broader economic agenda to diversify the economy through tourism, aviation, logistics, trade, agriculture, and downstream industries.
“Every Kina invested in strategic infrastructure creates opportunities far beyond the construction site. This airport redevelopment will stimulate tourism, facilitate trade, strengthen business confidence, improve connectivity, and generate thousands of employment opportunities for Papua New Guineans both during construction and long after completion,” said Marape.
Infrastructure and Expansion Details
The upgrade of airport facilities throughout Papua New Guinea is funded through the Asian Development Bank under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Project II. Under the initial airport upgrade program, Papua New Guinea saw the refreshment of airport terminals at Hoskins, Tokua, Momote, Mt. Hagen, Nadzab, and Vanimo.
The other airport facilities that are yet to be upgraded include Buka, Wewak, Daru, and Madang.
Phase three and four of the redevelopments at Port Moresby terminals will include improved accessibility for persons with disabilities, expansion of aircraft parking aprons, and support for aviation infrastructure.
Marape stated that the redevelopment is being driven by a strong growth in passenger numbers and the need to prepare Papua New Guinea for future economic expansion starting now.
A future runway extension is projected under the redevelopment from approximately 2.75 kilometers to 3.5 kilometers, with new taxiways, cargo facilities, and maintenance infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft and increasing international traffic.
Marape said passenger movements through Jacksons International Airport have doubled over recent decades and reached approximately 1.68 million passengers in 2025.
It is predicted that 4,000 to 4,600 passengers pass through the Port Moresby terminals daily, with projections indicating continued growth over the next twenty years. The redevelopment is designed to ensure sufficient capacity while significantly improving operational efficiency and passenger experience.
Marape stated that the project aligns with the Government’s broader economic agenda to diversify the economy through tourism, aviation, logistics, trade, agriculture, and downstream industries.
