STUDENTS and teachers from Gawa Primary and Secondary School in the Reef Islands, Temotu province have taken the lead in voluntarily cleaning up Lomlom Airport.
This follows the recent suspension of flight services due to safety concerns. The clean-up was carried out free of charge.
This community-led effort was initiated after Solomon Airlines announced the immediate suspension of all flights to Lomlom Airport, citing significant overgrowth along the runway rendered the airstrip non-compliant with aviation safety standards.
Gawa Secondary School Principal Richard Bapo said, the closure has serious consequences for communities across Temotu Province, particularly with Lata Airport also temporarily closed for upgrades.
“Air service is the only reliable and fastest form of transport for us,” Mr Bapo stated. “Our students’ assessments and national exams will be affected. That’s why we felt it was important to take action and support efforts to restore the airstrip.”
It is understood that the contractor responsible for regular airport maintenance failed to fulfil its duties, leading to the current state of disrepair.
The initiative by the Gawa school community done entirely on a voluntary and unpaid basis has been widely praised as an inspiring example of grassroots leadership and commitment to public service in a time of need.
Residents of Temotu Province are now awaiting an announcement from Solomon Airlines regarding the resumption of services to Lomlom Airport.
