An advanced air navigation system aimed at improving aviation safety in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces arrived at Honiara on April 23, 2025.
The equipment will soon be transported to the sites in the provinces for installation. This upgrade, part of the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2), is supported by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA).
MCA has engaged GECI Española Navigation Systems, an international supplier to carry out the work, including site surveys, creating a coverage map for Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B), checking for signal interference, installing, testing, and commissioning the system, and training staff to maintain and operate the system.
ADS-B enables real-time aircraft tracking and management using Global Positioning System data.
It transmits crucial flight information such as aircraft position, speed, and altitude to air traffic controllers and other aircraft, significantly enhancing situational awareness.
Unlike traditional radar, ADS-B operates automatically and does not require manual input from pilots or controllers, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution for airspace monitoring.
MCA Permanent Secretary, Alwyn Danitofea emphasized the importance of the upgrade: “Makira-Ulawa and Temotu present unique aviation challenges due to their rugged landscapes, isolated islands, and unpredictable weather. These conditions elevate the risk of incidents.
“The introduction of ADS-B will greatly enhance aviation safety by enabling real-time aircraft tracking, reducing risks linked to poor visibility and complex flying conditions.”
ADS-B systems have already been commissioned at Honiara and Munda Airports under the Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project.
The additional ADS-B ground stations in the eastern part of the country will expand ADS-B coverage in Solomon Islands, enhancing situational awareness for pilots of any ADS-B-equipped aircraft flying in the vicinity, including those not landing or taking off in the country.
In addition to the ADS-B upgrades, SIRAP2 is also working on construction of 10 kilometres of Noro Roads, upgrades to Honiara and Munda International Airports and Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields, maintenance of regional airports, rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of East Road between Baratolo and Atori, and sealing of 12 kilometres of North Road between Auki Gwaunaru’u Airfield Junction and Kwaisuliniu Road Junction.
- SIRAP
