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Progress on the Santa Cruz Airfield upgrade in Temotu Province, funded by World Bank under SIRAP2.
Work on the Santa Cruz Airfield upgrade is progressing steadily, with 43 percent of the project now complete. The upgrades, funded by the World Bank under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA), aim to improve air transport infrastructure in Temotu Province.
The first phase of construction is expected to be completed by mid-April 2025, covering 700 meters of the 1,310-meter runway with subgrade treatment, subbase, and base course construction. Preparations for the second phase have already begun at the eastern end of the airfield.
Last week, MCA and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey conducted a land survey at the western end of the airfield to confirm boundary alignments. A Memorandum of Understanding will be signed with landowners once the survey is completed to facilitate plans for extending the airfield.
MCA Permanent Secretary Alwyn Danitofea said the Santa Cruz Airfield plays a vital role in Temotu Province, given its remote location, approximately 645 kilometers from Honiara.
“The Santa Cruz Airfield is a crucial transportation hub for Temotu Province. Its strategic importance makes infrastructure enhancement vital for ensuring safe and reliable air transport, particularly during adverse weather conditions or mechanical issues,” Danitofea said.
As part of the project, the contractor has been assisting local communities and airfield users. The company has provided waste bins and collected rubbish at the terminal, as well as supplied and maintained a portable toilet for Solomon Airlines pilots and passengers. In addition, the contractor has supplied groundwater to the hospital for cleaning and removed end-of-life vehicles from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s workshop, as requested by the Temotu Provincial Government.
The Santa Cruz Airfield upgrade is part of a larger aviation and infrastructure improvement plan under SIRAP2, which also includes the construction of the Noro Roads and four new bridges in Malaita, upgrades to Honiara and Munda Airports, investments in air navigation systems in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces, and the maintenance of regional airports. The project also includes the Suavanao Airfield upgrades in Isabel Province, rehabilitation of 21 km of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and the sealing of 12 km of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
The Solomon Islands Government, through MCA and its development partners, remains committed to strengthening the country’s aviation sector, improving connectivity, and supporting economic growth.
Source: SIRAP2
