Pariwa demands Madang airport fix

Madang provincial MP, Ramsey Pariwa has called on the National Government to end the start-stop development of the Madang Airport, saying that the current state of the provincial gateway is a hurtful irony for his people.

In a series of pointed questions to Prime Minister James Marape in Parliament this morning, Pariwa expressed frustration that while neighboring provinces like East Sepik and New Ireland now boast paradise aviation hubs, Madang continues to operate out of a run-down terminal.

The provincial MP's grievance followed the Prime Minister’s recent groundbreaking ceremony for the Boram Airport in Wewak, East Sepik.

"I am truly happy; the people of East Sepik have deserved this for the last 50 years," Pariwa said. "But now, I am asking for the people of Madang."

Pariwa said there is a major disconnect between the multi-million kina Connect PNG road projects and the crumbling aviation infrastructure.

"There is a new four-lane road being built, and I thank the National Government for that," the Governor said. "But this road will lead us from a high-standard road down to a run-down terminal and into a culvert where the Dash 8 aircraft come. It doesn't make sense."

Pariwa also raised concerns regarding the government’s new fleet of aircraft, dubbed the 'People’s Planes', questioning how they would benefit his province if the runway remained inadequate.

"These 'People's Planes' cannot land at Madang Airport now. So, the people of Madang will just watch them fly by; what people will actually see them?" he asked.

In response, Prime Minister James Marape assured the governor and the people of Madang that the National Government remained fully committed to the airport's redevelopment.

The Prime Minister clarified that the project was a key component of the broader national infrastructure focus.

"I hear the Governor’s frustration… however, I want to assure him that the current plans are not just about a 'small' terminal," Marape said.

"We are looking at a comprehensive upgrade that reflects Madang's status as a major hub for tourism and commerce."

Marape confirmed that the National Airports Corporation and the Ministry of Civil Aviation are currently working to ensure runway specifications meet the requirements for the new larger aircraft.

"The funding is being secured, and we expect more consistent progress in the coming months," the Prime Minister said.

Marape asked for a little more patience while technical details are finalized to ensure the work is completed correctly.