CONSTRUCTION work on the Santa Cruz Airfield upgrade in Temotu Province is now 50 percent complete.
World Bank under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) is providing funds for the project.
Government through the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) and China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) are implementing and leading the construction efforts. Egis provides construction supervision services.
Key milestones have been achieved so far, including paving and foundation work to strengthen a half of the airfield’s infrastructure.
The work remains on track, with ongoing efforts focused on completing additional paving, drainage systems, and seawall.
“The Santa Cruz Airfield is a vital transportation hub for Temotu Province, situated approximately 645 kilometres from Honiara.
“Its strategic location makes infrastructure upgrades essential to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient air transport, particularly during emergencies, adverse weather, or mechanical issues,” stated Alwyn Danitofea, Permanent Secretary of MCA.
CHEC has also supported the local community by providing rubbish bins, managing waste collection at the terminal, and installing and maintaining a portable toilet for Solomon Airlines crew and passengers.
The Santa Cruz Airfield upgrade is part of broader infrastructure developments under SIRAP2.
Some of the projects benefiting under similar arrangement included the; Noro Roads upgrade and four new bridges in Malaita, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports and Suavanao Airfield, air navigation systems investments in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 km of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and the sealing of 12km of the North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
Through these investments, the government continues to demonstrate a commitment to modernizing the aviation sector, enhancing transport connectivity, fostering inclusive economic growth, and improving service delivery nationwide.
– SIRAP 2
