PM opens Momote airport

By PETER ESILA
THE new Momote Airport terminal was opened in Manus yesterday.
Civil Aviation Minister Walter Schnaubelt said the K32 million facility was part of the Civil Aviation Development Programme (Cadip) funded jointly by the Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
He said the second phase of the programme (Cadip 2) would start this year.
Prime Minister James Marape officiated at the opening which was attended by industry representatives and Manus MP Job Pomat and Governor Charlie Benjamin.
The Momote Airport upgrade encompasses the runway and the airport can now accommodate Boeing 737 to 800 series aircraft.
The project scope included pavement strengthening and runway extension from 1,810-metres to 2010m; a new terminal; a new airport market facility; construction of powerhouse and installation of standby power supply; the installation of airfield lighting system and installation of a water supply.
The cost of all improvements (terminal and runway) was K101.9 million.
Marape acknowledged the Somare Government for starting the programme in 2009, and continued by the O’Neill Government.
Schnaubelt said with the successful closure of Cadip 1 in November last year, Cadip 2 was in progress.
The civil aviation minister said scoping for Cadip 2 had been completed.
“Cadip 2 will be aimed towards improving a selection of rural regional airstrips.
“This will encourage tourism, agriculture, and connectivity which are important tools for economic growth and sustainability for PNG.”
The Cadip programme started in 2009 by PNG and ADB will cost K1.67 billion. The Momote Airport upgrade started on Sept 8, 2017.