Boram (Wewak) Airport to Undergo Major Upgrade in 2026 Under CADIP II
Boram Airport in Wewak, East Sepik Province, will undergo a major upgrade beginning in early 2026. The announcement was made during the contract signing for the airport’s rehabilitation on Tuesday, 23 December 2025, by the Honourable Wake Goi, Minister for Civil Aviation in the Marape–Rosso Government.
Minister Goi thanked the people of East Sepik for their patience and acknowledged the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and key stakeholders in delivering the project.
“Wewak Airport is a vital regional hub for East Sepik and the wider Sepik region, and it remains a priority for government investment,” Minister Goi said.
Under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program Phase II (CADIP II), the contract has been awarded to China Railway Construction and Engineering Group (CRCEG) in joint venture with COVEC, reflecting the government’s commitment to high-impact aviation infrastructure development.
The PGK71.9 million project will include:
- Runway extension from 1,730 metres to 2,010 metres
- Asphalt runway surfacing
- Construction of a new modern terminal building
- Car parking facilities
- Installation of an Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) system
The upgraded runway will allow unrestricted Boeing 737 and Airbus A220 operations, improving safety and reliability. The new terminal will enhance passenger experience through improved security, streamlined processing, and reduced turnaround times. Modern lighting will also support safe night-time and adverse weather operations.
The project is expected to generate local employment during construction and operations, delivering socio-economic benefits to surrounding communities. Construction is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026 and will run for 24 months.
The National Airports Corporation (NAC) will work closely with ADB, the East Sepik Provincial Government, contractors, regulators, and stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation.
Boram Airport is part of a nationwide airport modernisation program under CADIP II, alongside upgrades at Gurney, Kiunga, Aropa (Kieta), and Hoskins airports, aligning with ICAO standards and CASA PNG regulations.
NAC Chairman Mr Jacob Anga said the Board is committed to strong PNG local content, particularly under future CADIP III projects. He added that the upgrade, costing about K72 million, will permanently address runway pavement swelling and drainage issues caused by heavy rain and flooding.
Mr Anga concluded by assuring the people of East Sepik and Papua New Guinea that NAC will deliver a high-quality project meeting national and international standards.
