PNG’s Hayfield Airstrip Gets a Major Upgrade

The remote Hayfield Airstrip in the East Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea, is getting a major overhaul – improving access for villagers while giving river-region easier and improved access to travel. Revealed near the end of November 2025, this work, part of the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program Phase II (CADIP II), turns the old dirt runway into a paved one that works no matter the weather, letting bigger planes land safely all year round.

Project Details and Timeline

This upgrade pushes Hayfield (HYF) up to Level 2, bringing a paved runway, fresh terminal structure, secure boundary fences, ability to operate after dark and improved guidance systems. Supported by the Asian Development Bank under CADIP II, the deal worth 9.7 million PGK (1,714,390 GBP) was signed on February 24th, 2025 and handed over to a homegrown builder. Work’s set to kick off early 2026, while finish line aims for middle of 2027.

This project fits into a wider plan to fix up four countryside runways through CADIP II, such as Jacquinot Bay in East New Britain. Thanks to upgrades at Hayfield, planes such as the Dash 8-300 can now land – no more depending only on tiny Twin Otters.

Socio-Economic Impacts on the Sepik Region

The East Sepik Province is home to more than 100,000 people. This area depends mostly on planes due to rough land plus the famous Sepik River. Fixing it tackles ongoing problems with the dirt runway which during rainy times turns shaky so supplies can get delayed leaving locals waiting.

Local farmers growing vanilla or cocoa now get steady shipping thanks to the paved runway – less rot, quicker sales. Night flights alongside stronger facilities mean faster aid deliveries when emergencies hit.

Tourism could also see a big boost thanks to simpler routes to spots like Haus Tambarans and boat rides on the Sepik River. Carriers including Air Niugini plus PNG Air might ramp up flights, so this is definitely one to keep an eye on.

Minister Richard Maru, handling trade and investments abroad, stressed how key this move is, describing it as coming at just the right moment to boost the economy in an area packed with farming potential.

Future Prospects and Regional Connectivity

When finished, Hayfield may draw flights for resources and travel, helping PNG grow its air network. That fits what CADIP wants – better connections to remote areas – like recent work in other regions.

The project shows PNG’s push for greener infrastructure. This could even linking up with nature-focused tourism along the Sepik River, giving travelers a sturdier paths into one of the country’s richest cultural zones.

Papua New Guinea’s Hayfield upgrade marks a pivotal step in bridging remote communities to the world, enhancing safety and economic opportunities. Stay tuned to Travel Radar for more on Pacific aviation developments – what remote spot should we cover next? Comment below!