Additional Ground Support Equipment for Solomon Airlines Arrives
The Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA) has officially handed over additional ground support equipment to Solomon Airlines, marking an important milestone under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2).
The equipment, financed by the World Bank and implemented by MCA, arrived at Honiara International Airport on 30 December 2025 and was formally handed over during a ceremony on Monday, 12 January 2026, attended by MCA, Solomon Airlines, and the World Bank. The equipment was supplied by Shanghai Cartoo Machinery Company Limited, a specialist manufacturer of aviation ground support equipment.
World Bank Country Representative to Solomon Islands, Bernard Harborne, said the support provided through SIRAP2 is vital for strengthening the aviation sector, helping to deliver safer, more reliable, and more efficient air transport services that are essential for national connectivity and economic development.
Receiving the equipment, Solomon Airlines CEO Paul Abbott said the new ground support equipment will significantly enhance the airline’s daily operations by improving efficiency, reliability, and safety in ground handling services. He noted that some of the equipment are being introduced for the first time by the airline, representing a major step forward in strengthening its operational capacity and improving passenger service delivery.
The newly acquired equipment includes:
- Aircraft tow tractor
- Air start unit
- Ground power unit
- Diesel hybrid ground power unit
- Transformer rectifier unit
These will help improve aircraft turnaround times, strengthen ground operations, and ensure compliance with international aviation safety standards.
MCA Permanent Secretary Alwyn Danitofea welcomed the arrival of the equipment, saying effective ground handling is a critical part of the aviation system and directly contributes to aerodrome safety. He added that the equipment will enable Solomon Airlines to operate more efficiently and in a more environmentally friendly manner, while meeting modern safety and operational requirements.
Beyond Honiara, SIRAP2 continues to deliver nationwide impact, supporting:
- Construction of four new bridges in Malaita
- Upgrades at Honiara and Munda Airports
- Improvements at Santa Cruz and Suavanao Airfields
- Air navigation investments in Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provinces
- Maintenance of regional airports
- Rehabilitation of 21km of the East Road (Baratolo–Atori)
- Sealing of 12km of the North Road (Auki Gwaunaru’u–Kwaisuliniu)
- Strengthening connectivity. Improving safety. Supporting national development.
Source: Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project
