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The upgrade of Sager Airport was completed under the Solomon Islands Provincial Airports Project, which is jointly funded by the New Zealand, Australian and Solomon Islands governments.
photo: Facebook / New Zealand High Commission – Honiara, Solomon Islands
The New Zealand and Australian governments today handed over the upgraded Sager Airport to the Solomon Islands government in a move they hope will improve connectivity between the country’s provinces.
The nearly $55 million project was jointly funded by New Zealand, Australia and the Solomon Islands and implemented by Downer and AECOM.
The upgrade work has been Started last October It is expected to be completed in June 2024.
According to Solomons, the Sage Point airfield was completed by Seabees with support from Marine Raiders in late July 1943. The airfield was completed in less than 11 days and was subsequently used as a fighter runway to support the landings at Rendova and Munda Point.
In a joint press statement, the two governments said the project demonstrates their strong commitment to aviation and economic development in the Solomon Islands.
The official opening of the Sager Airport was attended by Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who thanked all partners for their hard work and dedication to the project.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele meets with New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters.
photo: RNZ Pacific/Caleb Fotheringham
New Zealand Deputy Minister Winston Peters, who is visiting the Solomon Islands, said the upgraded airport would make it “safer and more secure”.
“The upgrade of the runway at Seger Airport in Western Province will enable flights to operate in all weather conditions, making operations safer, more reliable and enhancing connectivity across the provinces of Solomon Islands,” he said.
He said New Zealand was pleased to work with Australia on the project and hand the airport back to the people of Solomon Islands, adding that it would contribute to the country’s economic recovery.
“In addition to increasing local jobs, this upgrade will support tourism growth, expand economic opportunities, improve access to basic services and promote more equitable development across the provinces.”
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Manele had made it clear that economic growth, job creation and infrastructure development were his government’s top priorities.
“Australia and New Zealand listened and responded, and we are working with the Solomon Islands Government to upgrade Seger Airport to bring greater economic benefits to the Western Province, including tourism,” Mr Wong said.
She added: “This upgrade is part of a high-quality airport upgrade programme supported by Australia and New Zealand to help Solomon Islands realise its full economic potential.”
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