A newly built Rescue Fire Service Station at Honiara International Airport has been officially handed over to the Ministry of Communication and Aviation (MCA). The handover ceremony, held on Friday, 24th April 2026, was officiated by the Minister for MCA, Hon. Alfred Tuasulia.
Attendees included the World Bank Country Representative to Solomon Islands, Mr. Bernard Harborne, alongside government ministers, representatives from Guadalcanal Province, senior government officials, project stakeholders, and invited guests.
This modern, gender-inclusive facility was constructed in partnership with the World Bank under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) and implemented by MCA. Equipped with advanced firefighting and rescue equipment, the station significantly enhances emergency response capabilities at the airport, strengthens compliance with international aviation safety standards and improves the safety, efficiency, and reliability of air transport services throughout the Solomon Islands.
Construction was carried out by China Railway Construction Engineering Group, with Egis Asia, overseeing construction supervision.
In his remarks, Hon. Tuasulia emphasized the importance of the new facility in supporting frontline responders:
“The Rescue Fire Service Complex we commissioned will serve as the operational home for a team of highly skilled and dedicated aviation firefighters professionals who stand ready to respond whenever duty calls.”
Mr. Bernard Harborne reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ infrastructure development:
“The World Bank is proud to support investments that strengthen aviation safety and improve connectivity across Solomon Islands. Facilities like this Rescue Fire Service Station are essential to ensuring safe, reliable, and resilient air transport services, particularly for remote island communities that depend heavily on aviation.”
The completion of the Rescue Fire Service Station reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to critical infrastructure investment, ensuring safer and more resilient aviation services for the people of Solomon Islands.
