Atoifi Airport Closure Sparks Outcry from East Kwaio Residents

The recent announcement by Solomon Airlines to suspend flights to Atoifi Airport has raised significant concerns among the residents of East Kwaio in Malaita Province. The decision, made last month following a thorough assessment by the airline's Safety and Security Department, cited that the current runway conditions do not meet minimum safety standards, resulting in the immediate closure of the airport.

The impact of this closure has been felt deeply within the community, particularly as it disrupts vital services such as the transportation of hospital supplies, emergency medical referrals, and banking services. In response to the situation, a large gathering of community members, church elders, and local leaders convened last Sunday at Atoifi Airport to discuss potential solutions and express their grievances.

During the meeting, community leaders voiced their concerns over the lack of clarity regarding who will take responsibility for addressing the runway issues and the timeline for rectifying the situation. “The closure of flights to Atoifi Airport has severely affected our access to essential services,” lamented one elder. “We need urgent action and clear communication from our national leaders on how this will be resolved.”

The residents of East Kwaio are calling on local and national authorities to intervene and expedite the necessary repairs to the airport. They expressed their readiness to assist in any way possible to restore normalcy to their travel and transportation services. “We understand safety is paramount, but we cannot overlook the critical needs of our community. This airport is our lifeline,” another leader emphasized.

As the community waits for a response from the responsible authorities, the future of Atoifi Airport hangs in the balance. The residents remain hopeful that their voices will be heard and that swift action will be taken to ensure the safety and accessibility of this vital transportation hub.