The Rural Airstrips Program for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville aims to connect people in rural areas to the main business corridors.
According to the National Airports Corporation, these airstrips will have an economic impact that will create more business opportunities.
The Rural Airstrips Program is supported by the national government of Papua New Guinea.
Four airstrips in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville will be redeveloped under the Rural Airstrips Program; Nissan Island, Boku, Buin and Torokina.
National Civil Aviation Minister, Steven Davis, when launching the program in Buka said the national government has a duty to fulfil the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
“We should be happy. One day I hope that Bougainville will become [one] of the main entry points to mainland Papua New Guinea,” he said.
National Airports Corporation is committed to ensure the Rural Airstrips Program is achieved in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
Acting Managing Director, Joseph Tupiri, says these airstrips compliment the two national airports that Bougainville has.
“We want the people living in rural communities to be connected to the national airports,” he said
Meanwhile, a National Airports Corporation Technical Team last week visited these airstrips.
