The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has announced temporary runway restrictions at Kiunga Airport as major upgrade works progress under the Method of Working Plan (MOWP) Stages 5 to 8.

NAC said the airside and landside components of the project are about 35 percent complete, with construction activities set to intensify starting today, 1 March 2026.

Stages 1 to 4 are expected to be completed soon.

As of today, the airport’s 1, 200-metre runway will be reduced to 490 metres during the next phases of works, which are scheduled to run until June 2026.

As a result, Regular Public Transport (RPT) services, including Dash 8-100 series aircraft operations, will be suspended for at least four months.

Despite the temporary shortening, the aerodrome will remain open to smaller general aviation aircraft.

NAC acknowledged the disruption the restrictions will cause to passenger travel and cargo movement in and out of Kiunga but said the upgrade is essential to maintain aviation safety standards and ensure the airport’s long-term reliability.

The corporation advised the travelling public, airline operators and the business community to note the key dates and make alternative arrangements where necessary.

Work schedules remain subject to weather conditions, and any changes will be communicated.

NAC said the runway upgrade represents a critical investment in strengthening aviation infrastructure in Western Province and supporting regional connectivity into the future.

The corporation apologized for the inconvenience and thanked stakeholders and the people of Western Province and Papua New Guinea for their patience and cooperation.