Choiseul Bay Airport (CHY)

Choiseul Bay Airport (IATA: CHY, ICAO: AGGC) is the primary aviation gateway to Choiseul Province, one of the most remote regions in the Solomon Islands. Located on Taro Island, it serves as a vital lifeline for the provincial capital of Taro and the surrounding communities on the much larger Choiseul Island. The airport is crucial for passenger travel, the transport of essential goods, mail delivery, and medical evacuations, connecting the province to the national capital, Honiara, and other key regional centers.

The airport was established to serve the administrative needs of the province. A significant development in its history was the upgrading of its runway from a crushed coral and grass surface to a fully sealed, all-weather asphalt runway. Completed around 2012 with funding assistance from the New Zealand government, this project vastly improved the safety and reliability of air services, particularly during the wet season, allowing for more consistent flight operations. This upgrade underscores the airport's strategic importance in providing dependable access to an otherwise isolated area.

Choiseul Bay Airport occupies a significant portion of the small Taro Island, which lies in a narrow strait just off the northwest coast of Choiseul Island. The town of Taro is situated adjacent to the airstrip, making the airport accessible on foot for those on the island. To reach settlements on mainland Choiseul or other nearby islands, travelers must take a short trip across the channel via a small outboard motorboat, often referred to as a "banana boat." These boat transfers are the standard mode of transport connecting the airport to the wider province.

Operations at the airport are exclusively domestic. The national carrier, Solomon Airlines, is the sole airline providing scheduled services, operating flights to and from Honiara (HIR), Gizo (GZO), and Munda (MUA). These routes are flown using small turboprop aircraft, such as the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter and the Dash 8, which are well-suited for the short runway and regional nature of the flights. Passenger volume is modest, consisting mainly of local residents, government officials, and a small number of tourists and researchers.

Traveler facilities at Choiseul Bay Airport are very basic, reflecting its role as a remote regional airstrip. The terminal consists of a small, simple building that houses a check-in counter and a covered waiting area with seating. There are no retail shops, restaurants, cafes, or passenger lounges available. Basic restroom facilities may be present, but travelers should not expect comprehensive amenities.

For those traveling through Choiseul Bay Airport, it is advisable to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before departure, as check-in processes can be manual. Transport from the airport to mainland Choiseul should be arranged in advance with local contacts or accommodation providers. Flights are subject to delays or cancellations due to weather, so travelers with onward connections should allow for a flexible schedule. Baggage allowances on the small aircraft are strictly enforced. It is recommended to carry personal snacks and water, as no food or beverages are sold at the airport.