Upgraded Seghe Airfield handed over to Solomon Islands government by New Zealand and Australia

The upgraded Seghe Airfield in the Solomon Islands was officially handed over to the government by the New Zealand and Australian governments in a bid to boost connectivity for the country’s provinces. The $55 million project, co-funded by New Zealand, Australia, and the Solomon Islands, was implemented by Downer and AECOM and was completed ahead of schedule.

The Seghe Airfield, originally built in 1943, has now been upgraded to enable flights to operate under all weather conditions, making operations safer and more reliable. This enhancement is expected to improve connectivity for the Solomon Islands’ provinces and contribute to the country’s economic development.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele expressed his gratitude to all partners involved in the project and emphasized the importance of economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development for his government. New Zealand Deputy Minister Winston Peters highlighted the benefits of the upgraded airfield, including support for the tourism industry, economic opportunities, and improved access to essential services.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong also praised the project, stating that it is part of a broader program of high-quality airfield upgrades aimed at unlocking the Solomon Islands’ full economic potential. The handover of the Seghe Airfield signifies the strong commitment of New Zealand, Australia, and the Solomon Islands to the country’s aviation and economic development.