Civil Aviation Minister Douglas Tomuriesa has called on Milne Bay communities to take ownership of the newly opened Gurney Airport terminal and protect it as a long-term public asset.

Speaking at the official opening of the upgraded airport in Alotau on Friday, August 21st, Tomuriesa said the new terminal represented a major transformation in aviation infrastructure and an opportunity for the province.

“Let us take ownership of this terminal. Let us keep this terminal clean. Let us treat staff and passengers with respect. That famous Milne Bay hospitality. Let us protect this asset from vandalism and damage.”

Minister Tomuriesa said the terminal was more than a new building, describing it as a gateway to economic opportunities for Milne Bay and Papua New Guinea.

He acknowledged the traditional landowners for supporting the project and said the government was committed to ensuring the development continued to benefit local communities.

“This is more than a concrete and steel structure. This is a door to opportunity for every person in Milne Bay province and Papua New Guinea as well.”

He also called for stronger cooperation with airlines to improve air services to the province.

“Let us work with airlines to bring more frequent and affordable flights to Milne Bay.”

Furthermore, he thanked the Asian Development Bank, National Airports Corporation, project engineers, contractors, and local workers for their contribution to the airport upgrade.

The K76.8 million project was delivered under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Project Phase II, with improvements including a new terminal, upgraded runway, apron, taxiway, airfield lighting and other supporting infrastructure.