Papua New Guinea: Authorities close Mount Hagen International Airport indefinitely following oil spill incident /update 1

Event

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has closed Mount Hagen International (Kagamuga) Airport (HGU) indefinitely as of June 8. Officials initially suspended flights at the airport the previous day after trespassers spilled oil on the runway. An investigation and cleaning works are ongoing. The NAC has reportedly suspended security firms responsible for protecting HGU amid the investigation, suggesting that the closure could continue for several days.

Increased demand for flights to nearby airstrips or ground transport is likely in the coming days.

Advice

Use alternative airstrips for time-sensitive travel. Confirm security conditions before embarking on ground transport in the region.