THE redevelopment of Jackson’s International Airport in Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby, has been described as a major investment in aviation, tourism and trade ambitions.
Prime Minister Marape said the upgrade carried out by the National Airports Corporation in partnership with AG Investment Limited and other stakeholders, would modernise the country’s main international gateway and help position Papua New Guinea as a regional hub in the Asia-Pacific.
“The progress our people are now witnessing at Jacksons International Airport is a clear sign that Papua New Guinea is building for the future,” Marape said.
He said the airport was more than a transport facility and described it as the first impression for visitors, investors and business travellers entering the country.
“Jacksons International Airport is more than an airport. It is the front door to our nation,” he said.
“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.”
The redevelopment is expected to be delivered in four phases. It includes expansion of the domestic terminal, new passenger processing areas, additional check-in counters, aerobridges, upgraded baggage systems, VIP lounges and commercial space, as well as improved access for people with disabilities.
Plans also call for expansion of aircraft parking aprons, a new international terminal with modern security screening and self-service technologies, and a future runway extension from about 2.75 km to 3.5 km, along with new taxiways, cargo facilities and maintenance infrastructure.
Marape said passenger traffic through Jacksons reached about $PGK1.68 million in 2025 and was expected to keep rising over the next two decades.
“The redevelopment is designed not only to meet future passenger demand but also to significantly improve operational efficiency and the overall travel experience,” he said.
He linked airport work to a wider economic agenda that includes tourism, logistics, agriculture, trade and downstream industries, saying strategic infrastructure spending would create jobs and support long-term growth.
“Every kina invested in strategic infrastructure creates opportunities far beyond the construction site,” he said.
“This airport redevelopment will stimulate tourism, facilitate trade, strengthen business confidence, improve connectivity and generate thousands of employment opportunities for Papua New Guineans during construction and long after completion.”
Marape said the airport project complements other transport investments, including the restoration of the Port Moresby-Narita air route, the Connect PNG programme and port upgrades.
He said a modern airport would help signal that Papua New Guinea is open for tourism and business and ready to compete internationally.
The prime minister also praised the National Airports Corporation board, acting Managing Director Dominic Kaumu, AG Investment Limited, contractors, engineers and workers involved in the project.
“This is not simply about constructing buildings. It is about building national confidence, strengthening our economy, creating opportunities for our people and presenting Papua New Guinea to the world through a gateway that truly reflects the greatness of our nation.”
