In a new chapter for Solomon Islands’ tourism, the revamped multimillion-dollar Munda International Airport terminal has been officially opened.
Constructed at a cost of USD23.6 million, it is co-funded by the Solomon Islands Government, the World Bank and the New Zealand Government.
The airport’s original infrastructure has been completely transformed with a new terminal building for both domestic and international traffic.
There is also a runway extension enabling much larger aircraft to land there.
Munda serves as a vital gateway to several key tourism centres in the Solomon Islands’ western region.
These are the picturesque Marovo Lagoon and Gizo, both ‘destinations renowned for their natural beauty.
Tourism Solomons CEO (Acting), Dagnal Dereveke said the airport development presents a huge opportunity to boost the country’s status as a major destination.
“Our biggest challenge now is to build an accommodation infrastructure in the region capable of managing what we hope will be an increase in demand.”
The expanded runway and airport facilities has enabled Solomon Airlines to restart direct services from Munda to Brisbane with services departing one a week.
The airline marked the opening of the new terminal with a special flight from Honiara bringing in more than 100 passengers including the prime minister and other VIPs.
