Kagamuga airport set for A220, B737 operations soon
The National Airports Corporation [NAC] has announced in a media statement a major runway upgrade project that will begin on June 4, 2026 and is expected to take about nine months to complete, making way for the arrival of the two modern aircraft types before the end of this year.
And with just six months remaining in 2026 after the project begins, people in Western Highlands and across the Highlands can look forward to witnessing what many are calling a historic milestone for regional aviation.
The runway rehabilitation project at Mt Hagen's Kagamuga Airport is designed specifically to upgrade the airport's infrastructure to accommodate Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 aircraft operations by December 2026.
According to NAC, the works will include asphalt overlay, runway grooving, new pavement markings, aircraft parking bay upgrades and drainage improvements.
NAC Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dominic Kaumu said the project is a critical investment in the future of air travel and economic growth in Papua New Guinea.
"These essential works are necessary to ensure that A220 and B737 aircraft can operate into Mt Hagen Airport by December 2026," Mr Kaumu said.
He said the airport upgrade is one of NAC's top priorities as it works to build sustainable airports capable of meeting the country's growing demand for air services.
"The upgrade of the Mt Hagen's Kagamuga Airport runway to asphalt concrete overlay is among the top priorities driven by the NAC Board to create sustainable airports that meet the growing demand for air travel in the country while supporting economic growth," he said.
Mr. Kaumu assured the travelling public that airport safety and security would remain a priority throughout the construction period.
"The works will be implemented in accordance with the required standards whilst ensuring that the safety and security of operations at the airport during the period of works are maintained," he said.
The runway upgrade will be carried out in 13 stages, with aircraft operations continuing under restricted runway lengths during different phases of construction.
During some stages, only smaller aircraft such as Dash 8, ATR and Fokker aircraft will be able to operate, while full runway access for A220 and B737 aircraft is scheduled to become available from late November and December 2026.
The NAC boss says it is committed to ensuring the full runway length is ready for Boeing 737 and Airbus A220 operations by December this year.
The project marks a significant development for Mt Hagen, which serves as the main aviation gateway into the Highlands Region and once completed, the upgraded airport is expected to improve connectivity, increase passenger capacity, boost business activity and access to services throughout the Highlands.
For many residents, the arrival of the larger A220 and B737 aircraft will represent a historic first, placing Mt Hagen among the country's key regional airports capable of handling modern jet operations on a regular basis.