Papua New Guinea’s Transport and Civil Aviation Minister, Walter Schnaubelt, has disclosed that Air Niugini owes the National Airports Corporation (NAC) over K120 million (approximately US$29.92 million) in non-aeronautical charges. Meanwhile, PNG Air has an outstanding debt of K30 million (about US$7.38 million). This combined total of K150 million (around US$36.91 million) is crucial for the maintenance and enhancement of airport infrastructures across the nation.
Schnaubelt emphasized that these unpaid dues have hampered NAC’s capacity to undertake essential upgrades, expand terminals, and improve entry points at the airports. He clarified that while NAC provides the operational space necessary for airlines, it does not control their flight schedules. Therefore, congestion at entry points often results from flight delays or cancellations that are beyond NAC’s management authority.
Despite ongoing discussions and multiple requests for payment, the outstanding amounts persist. Schnaubelt acknowledged that NAC recognizes the importance of expanding domestic boarding lounges and creating additional entry points to alleviate congestion. However, he reaffirmed that the progress on these initiatives is contingent upon securing the overdue funds.
He expressed commitment on behalf of NAC’s management and staff to ensure that the country’s airports operate efficiently, stating that collaboration among all stakeholders—including airlines, the government, and NAC—is essential for improving passenger experiences.
Reflecting on recent public concerns about congestion during the busy Christmas and New Year period, Schnaubelt noted that the situation has since eased and that traffic and operations at the airports are returning to normal.
These developments underscore a significant challenge faced by airport authorities in ensuring that infrastructure can keep pace with demand. The government’s commitment to resolving these financial issues is critical not only for improving airport services but also for supporting the broader economy, especially as tourism and local travel continue to rebound.
Overall, the hopes for a revitalized and efficient airport infrastructure in Papua New Guinea remain, as plans for upgrades move forward pending the resolution of financial obligations.
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