Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the visible progress now taking shape at Port Moresby’s Jacksons International Airport, describing the Redevelopment as a transformational investment that will position Papua New Guinea as a stronger Aviation, Tourism, Trade and Investment hub for the Asia-Pacific Region.

The Prime Minister said the ongoing construction activity and redevelopment works at the country’s busiest international gateway reflect the Government’s commitment to modernising critical national infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing economy and a rapidly expanding Aviation Sector. “The progress our people are now witnessing at Jacksons International Airport is a clear sign that Papua New Guinea is building for the future,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Jacksons International Airport is more than an Airport. It is the front door to our nation. Every visitor, investor, tourist and business traveller forms their first impression of Papua New Guinea here. We, therefore, have a responsibility to build a world-class gateway that reflects the confidence, potential and aspirations of our country.”

The Prime Minister recently launched the multi-billion Kina Redevelopment Programme being undertaken by the National Airports Corporation (NAC) in partnership with AG Investment Limited and other stakeholders. The Redevelopment is expected to be delivered in four major phases over the next several years and represents one of the largest Aviation infrastructure investments in Papua New Guinea’s history.

The Programme includes:

* Expansion of the Domestic Terminal to ease congestion and improve passenger comfort.

* New passenger processing facilities, additional check-in counters, aerobridges and modern baggage handling systems.

* Upgraded VIP lounges, commercial facilities and improved accessibility for persons with disabilities.

* Expansion of aircraft parking aprons and supporting aviation infrastructure.

* Construction of a new International Terminal with modern security screening and self-service technologies.

* Future runway extension from approximately 2.75 kilometres to 3.5 kilometres, together with new taxiways, cargo facilities and maintenance infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft and increasing international traffic.

Prime Minister Marape said the Redevelopment is being driven by strong growth in passenger numbers and the need to prepare Papua New Guinea for future Economic expansion. Passenger movements through Jacksons International Airport have more than doubled over recent decades, reaching approximately 1.68 million passengers in 2025, with projections indicating continued growth over the next twenty years. The Redevelopment is designed to ensure sufficient capacity while significantly improving operational efficiency and passenger experience. The Prime Minister said the Project aligns with the Government’s broader Economic Agenda to diversify the Economy through tourism, aviation, logistics, trade, agriculture and downstream industries. “Every Kina invested in strategic infrastructure creates opportunities far beyond the construction site. This Airport Redevelopment will stimulate tourism, facilitate trade, strengthen business confidence, improve connectivity and generate thousands of Employment opportunities for Papua New Guineans both during construction and long after completion.”

Prime Minister Marape noted that improved Airport infrastructure complements other major national investments, including the redevelopment of Jacksons International Airport, the restoration of direct international air services such as the recently reinstated Port Moresby–Narita (Japan) route, the Connect PNG Programme, expansion of seaports and broader infrastructure improvements that are positioning Papua New Guinea as a more competitive Regional economy.

“A modern Airport sends a strong message to the world that Papua New Guinea is open for business, open for tourism and ready to compete in the international marketplace.”

The Prime Minister said the Redevelopment also supports Papua New Guinea’s long-term ambitions to strengthen its role as a Regional Aviation Hub while preparing for future international events and increasing commercial activity throughout the Pacific. He commended the National Airports Corporation Board, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Dominic Kaumu, AG Investment Limited, Contractors, Engineers and all Workers currently delivering the Project. Prime Minister Marape encouraged Papua New Guineans to take pride in the transformation now underway. “This is not simply about constructing buildings. It is about building national confidence, strengthening our economy, creating opportunities for our people and presenting Papua New Guinea to the world with a gateway that matches the greatness of our nation.”