New Zealand (NZ) and Solomon Islands (SI) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen aviation safety and operations with the commissioning of new security screening equipment at Henderson International Airport and the signing of a new three-year funding arrangement to support airport operations and management.
Speaking at the handover event, New Zealand’s High Commissioner Jonathan Curr emphasised the importance of aviation for economic growth and connectivity, highlighting the long-standing partnership between the two countries in the sector.
“Air travel plays a vital role in connecting Solomon Islands to the region and the world. New Zealand is proud to support efforts to improve aviation security, infrastructure, and operations to ensure safer and more efficient air travel,” High Commissioner Curr said.
“This new security screening equipment and continued support for airport operations will help Solomon Islands meet international aviation standards while strengthening the sector’s capacity for future growth.”
The new screening equipment, delivered through a partnership between New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand, brings Henderson Airport in line with modern security technology used across the Asia-Pacific region.
The equipment will not only improve security for travellers but also support Solomon Islands in meeting global aviation security requirements.
New Zealand’s support also includes technical and operational training to support airport staff who will operate and maintain the systems.
Training covers key areas such as equipment maintenance, passenger screening techniques, and international aviation security protocols. In addition, New Zealand will provide ongoing servicing and maintenance support to ensure the sustainability of the new and existing screening equipment.
The signing of a new three-year funding arrangement with Solomon Islands Airport Corporation Limited (SIACL) marks another important milestone in the partnership. SIACL manages and develops Solomon Islands airports and it aims to provide safe, secure and efficient operations.
This agreement will help SIACL continue to strengthen airport operations and management at Honiara and Munda airports, providing technical assistance, supporting staff training and leadership development, and ensuring the necessary resources are available to maintain compliance with aviation safety regulations.
SIACL CEO Mike Clay welcomed the new arrangement, noting the positive impact it will have on the management of aviation infrastructure and services.
“SIACL is focused on compliance and improving its delivery of aviation security requirements, to ensure a secure aviation system. It can be challenging to achieve this without well-functioning and reliable security screening equipment.
“The new equipment will greatly assist us in achieving and maintaining a high level of aviation security at the Solomon Islands border.
“The three-year grant funding support will also support our efforts to improve safety, security and compliance, and continue to build capacity within our team” CEO Clay said.
Looking ahead, New Zealand remains committed to further improving aviation infrastructure in Solomon Islands. Work is set to begin soon on the construction of new terminal buildings at Seghe and Taro airports, a development that follows the completion of airfields at both locations through funding from New Zealand, Australia, and Solomon Islands.
The event highlights the strong and enduring partnership between New Zealand and Solomon Islands in aviation, with both countries working together to ensure a safe, secure, and sustainable aviation sector that supports economic development and regional connectivity.
– NZ Press
