Solomon Islands to build new air control towers at Honiara and Munda Airports, improving aviation safety.
The Solomon Islands government is advancing its aviation infrastructure with the design and construction of new Air Traffic Control Towers (ATCT) at Honiara and Munda Airports, valued at over SBD 58 million. This project is part of the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), led by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), with funding from the World Bank.
The construction contract for the ATCTs has been awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation under a Design and Build model. This requires the contractor to develop detailed designs that encompass civil, structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, fire, and hydraulic systems.
Site visits were held on January 25, 2025, at Munda, and on January 27, 2025, at Honiara. These visits involved the contractor, project support team, MCA engineers, Solomon Islands Airports Corporation Limited technical officers, and supervision consultants.
The design of the new ATCTs is progressing, ensuring compliance with both local and international aviation and building standards. The towers will be built to withstand harsh weather conditions and climate impacts while incorporating modern air traffic control technology. This upgrade is expected to improve the safety, reliability, and efficiency of air travel to and within the Solomon Islands.
Alwyn Danitofea, Permanent Secretary of MCA, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We are excited to see construction begin on these new towers, which will greatly improve air travel in our country. I am also pleased that their design will reflect local influences and Solomon Islands culture. We thank the World Bank for its continued support through SIRAP2 and for helping to improve air travel safety and efficiency.”
In addition to the new ATCTs, SIRAP2 is also focused on other key infrastructure projects, including the construction of four new bridges in Malaita (Kolofe 1, Kolofe 2, Su’u Harbor, and Bira Bridges), road upgrades in Noro, improvements at Honiara and Munda Airports, and upgrades to the Santa Cruz (Lata) Airfield. The project is also investing in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces and supporting the maintenance of regional airports.
Source: SIRAP
