GWAUNARU’U airport near Auki has been declared re-opened by Aviation but the delay rests with Solomon Airlines and the National Government according to Malaita’s provincial minister for lands administration reform and survey.
Martin Fini made the clarification following public queries on why there are still no flights to the airstrip despite recent declaration that the airport has been re-opened.
“The airport was inspected and a trial flight was already made on Monday last week, but the delay now is only between the airline and the national government.
“The two parties are yet to sign the 2012 reviewed agreement with landowners.
“The travelling public is waiting anxiously therefore this signing has to be sped up in order for flights to start.”
But a source from Solomon Airlines yesterday said there were still disagreements by landowners on the reviewed agreement.
“We are prepared to resume flights anytime once this agreement is signed.”
By WILLIAM EKOTANI
In Auki
