BAENALU airport on Manoaba Islands in North Malaita and Lomlom in Temotu province are expected to open for flights this year.
This came after the civil aviation certified both airports before Christmas last year to receive flights.
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation permanent secretary, Francis Lomo confirmed that the delay to open up services for the two airports was due to the delay in insurance cover granted to them by civil aviation.
Mr Lomo said he had received email that it had already been granted at the end of last year and flights are expected to start this year.
Former Prime Minister, Gordon Darcy Lilo had opened the Baenalu airport in September 2013 as part of the then government’s policy to connect the rural communities that had the potential to host developments.
People of Lau/Mbaelelea, North Malaita, Baegu /Asifola and parts of Fataleka will be the beneficiaries of this infrastructure to boost tourism, fisheries and add to other windows of opportunities on Malaita.
Solomon Airlines said the company is waiting for the green light from civil aviation and will start scheduling flights to these new routes.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
