Aropa Airport Upgrade to Slash Bougainville Airline Ticket Prices by 2027

December 28, 2025 at 06:00 PM•3 min read

Autonomous Bougainville Government and National Airports Corporation are partnering on a K58.2 million Aropa Airport upgrade, expected to be complete by 2027, to boost competition and

Key Points

1K58.2 million Aropa Airport upgrade is underway, led by the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) and National Airports Corporation (NAC).
2The project, part of the CADIP II program, includes aircraft pavement strengthening and a new terminal building.
3Project completion is anticipated by 2027, with the primary goal of increasing airline competition.
4The infrastructure improvements are expected to result in a significant reduction in Bougainville airline ticket price for passengers.

The traveling public to and from Bougainville can expect a significant reduction in Bougainville airline ticket price in the coming years. This follows a major infrastructure project at Aropa Airport (Kieta). The goal is to allow more airlines to enter the market, increasing competition.

This key development is a shared partnership. The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) is working with the National Airports Corporation (NAC). The project is part of NAC’s Civil Aviation Development Investment Project II (CADIP II).

Project Scope and Timeline

The Aropa Airport redevelopment is a critical infrastructure investment. It is valued at K58.20 million (Papua New Guinea Kina). The contract was awarded to China Railway Construction Group Co. Ltd (CRCG Ltd).

Work commenced following a groundbreaking ceremony in May 2025. The entire Aropa Airport infrastructure upgrade is anticipated to be complete by 2027.

Key Infrastructure Details

The upgrade focuses on modernizing the airport facilities. The main scope of work includes several major components:

Aircraft pavement strengthening and repair. This is vital for safety and accommodating larger aircraft.
Bituminous chip seal resurfacing of the runway.
Construction of a new terminal building and car park. This will enhance passenger processing.
Installation of a new Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI).
Upgrades to utility systems, including new power and water supply. Aropa will be the first NAC airport to use solar power.

Impact on Air Travel and Economy

The primary benefit of the Aropa Airport infrastructure upgrade is the expected reduction in airfares. Increased capacity and safety standards will attract new air service providers. This will foster increased airline competition on routes to and from Bougainville.

Currently, Air Niugini and other operators like Airlines PNG serve the region. The new capacity will enhance Pacific region connectivity.

ABG officials highlight the project's strategic importance. It is seen as a crucial step for economic growth Bougainville. Improved air links support tourism and business. The project also aligns with the Papua New Guinea Government’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV (2023-2027).

Stakeholders view this as a necessary step to resolve air services issues. The upgrade ensures compliance with international standards. This focus on infrastructure is critical for the region's future. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.

This National Airports Corporation partnership with the ABG signals a strong commitment. It is a major investment in the region's transport future. The project promises long-term benefits for travelers seeking reduced airfares Bougainville. The Asian Development Bank is a key partner in this development.