Bellona/Anua Airport (BNY)

Bellona/Anua Airport (IATA: BNY, ICAO: AGGB) is the sole airfield serving the remote island of Bellona in the Rennell and Bellona Province of the Solomon Islands. It functions as an essential lifeline, providing the primary means of transportation for residents, cargo, and mail to and from the nation's capital, Honiara. For visitors, it is the gateway to one of the country's most culturally distinct Polynesian outliers. The airport's history is tied to the post-war development of connecting the nation's scattered islands, with its unpaved coral runway representing a critical piece of infrastructure for the isolated community.

Located near the main settlement of Anua, the airport is central to the small island's key villages. Given Bellona's compact size, access is straightforward. Travelers are typically met by representatives from their pre-booked guesthouse or by local family members. Transportation is usually via utility truck or on foot, as distances are minimal. There is no formal taxi service or public transport system available at the airport, making pre-arranged transfers essential.

Operations at Bellona/Anua are exclusively domestic. Solomon Airlines is the sole scheduled carrier, operating infrequent flights with small turboprop aircraft, primarily connecting the island with Honiara's Henderson International Airport (HIR). Passenger volume is very low, consisting mainly of local residents, government workers, and a small number of intrepid tourists. Flight schedules are subject to change based on weather, community needs, and operational factors, making flight reconfirmation a necessity.

Facilities at the airport are extremely basic, reflecting its remote, utilitarian purpose. The terminal consists of a simple, open-air shelter that provides shade and a place to wait. There are no check-in counters, security screening areas, lounges, retail shops, or food and beverage vendors. Baggage handling is done manually. The airstrip itself is a compacted coral runway, suitable only for STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft.

For travelers, practical preparation is key. It is crucial to reconfirm flight status with Solomon Airlines 24 to 48 hours prior to departure. Arrive at the time specified by the airline, as the check-in process is a simple manual procedure. All ground transportation must be arranged in advance of arrival. Visitors should carry their own water and snacks, as none are available for purchase. Furthermore, all transactions on Bellona are conducted in cash, so it is vital to bring sufficient Solomon Islands Dollars for the entire duration of your stay.