Vanimo has a new airport terminal.
The airport upgrade is part of the Civil Aviation Development Initiative Program (CADIP) of 2009 by the then Somare led Government. It is a partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) where a 12-year program was agreed. A total of K1.67billion has been invested in the CADIP program.
For Vanimo, the extended runway and new airport facility are steps towards achieving a bigger goal of transforming Vanimo into the gateway to Asia. NAC Managing Director and CEO Rex Kiponge spoke of this vision and highlighted the positive impacts it will have on Vanimo and West Sepik.
“West Sepik Province being PNG’s closest gateway into Asia and sharing a geographical land border with Indonesia, Vanimo Airport anticipates hosting international flights in the future. The airport has the potential to increase the volume of socio-economic activities in the province, the country and the Asia-Pacific Region,” Kiponge said.
The Vanimo Airport Upgrade Project includes the upgrade of the aircraft pavement to accommodate unrestricted operations of Fokker 100 or similar types of aircrafts. It can cater for two Fokker 100 aircrafts on the ground at any one time. The terminal is fitted with the state of the art screening machines and baggage conveyor belts for departure and arrival. The departure hall can cater to over 100 passengers and is fully air-conditioned with toilet facilities including disability access areas. The terminal also has a kiosk and an ATM with a VIP lounge.
“The improved airport facilities will enhance passenger comfort,” Kiponge added.
Vanimo is the 2nd Terminal and Runway upgrade under the tranche 3 series of projects implemented under CADIP. Momote in Manus was the 1st airport. Wewak and Madang will follow soon after.
Comments are closed.