Airstrip development into 2nd phase

THE second phase of the Civil Aviation development investment programme (Cadip 2) will improve rural airstrips in the country, Department of National Planning and Monitoring secretary Koney Samuel says.
He said this in Port Moresby yesterday during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for Cadip 2 that four airstrips – the Hayfield in Maprik, East Sepik; Finschhafen in Morobe; Jacquinot airstrip in Pomio, East New Britain; and, Tapini in Central – were four pilot projects under Cadip 2 that would be improved when the financing for Cadip 2 started later this year or early next year.
National Airports Corporation (NAC) managing director and chief executive officer Rex Kiponge added that five national airports would also be included in Cadip 2.
Department of Transport secretary Roy Mumu said Cadip 2 was aligned with the Connect PNG initiative and various transport plans.
“A lot of airstrips in this country have deteriorated over the years and we are trying to upgrade them to an accessible level,” he said.
“Most Papua New Guineans are in the rural areas and many of them are cut off from all forms of transport, particularly road and maritime transport, so if we can give them access by way of airstrip, that will be good.“