Gizo, SB 🇸🇧 Small Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
AGGN
IATA
GZO
Elevation
13 ft
Region
SB-WE
Local Time
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Loading...GPS Code: AGGN
Local Code: Not available
Location: -8.09778° N, 156.863998° E
Continent: Oceania
Type: Small Airport
Nusatupe Airport (IATA: GZO, ICAO: AGGN) serves as the primary aviation gateway to Gizo, the capital of the Western Province in the Solomon Islands. It plays a crucial role in connecting the region to the nation's capital, Honiara, supporting both a thriving tourism industry, particularly for scuba diving, and essential local transport. The airport is a vital link for commerce and services in this remote archipelago.
Originally constructed as a fighter airstrip by U.S. Naval Construction Battalions (Seabees) during World War II, the airfield has since transitioned into a key civilian facility. Its strategic location was significant during the Pacific Campaign, and today it stands as a legacy of that era, now facilitating peaceful travel and trade.
The airport’s most distinctive feature is its location. It is situated on the small, flat island of Nusatupe, separated from the main town of Gizo on Ghizo Island by a picturesque lagoon. Consequently, all arriving and departing passengers must complete their journey via a short, 5-to-10-minute motorboat ride. This boat transfer is an integral and memorable part of the travel experience, offering scenic views of the surrounding islands.
Operations at Nusatupe are exclusively domestic. Solomon Airlines is the principal carrier, operating regular flights to and from Honiara's Henderson International Airport (HIR) using turboprop aircraft like the De Havilland Canada Dash 8. The airport handles a steady flow of international tourists connecting through Honiara, as well as local residents.
Facilities at the airport are basic, reflecting its small scale. The single terminal building is a simple structure containing a check-in counter, a modest waiting area, and restroom facilities. There are no lounges, large retail shops, or restaurants within the terminal, so travelers should not expect extensive amenities.
For those traveling through Nusatupe Airport, it is advisable to coordinate the boat transfer in advance, as many local hotels and dive resorts arrange this service for their guests. Independent travelers can find boats waiting for arriving flights for a small fee. Due to the use of smaller aircraft, baggage weight and size restrictions are strictly enforced and should be confirmed with the airline prior to travel. Arriving 45 to 60 minutes before a domestic flight is generally sufficient for the straightforward check-in process.
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Nusatupe Airport (AGGN/GZO) in Gizo, Solomon Islands, offers a unique and adventurous start to a visit to the Western Province. Travelers generally view the airport as a small but efficient gateway to Gizo and the surrounding islands, often highlighting the scenic journey. While it may lack extensive modern amenities, the overall sentiment is often one of appreciation for its role in connecting to a "raw and undiscovered" destination.
Nusatupe Airport, while not a modern international hub, serves its purpose as a crucial link to Gizo. Travelers should expect a basic but functional airport and prepare for the unique boat transfer experience, which is often a highlight of the journey. Despite some infrastructural limitations and occasional flight disruptions, the overall experience is often seen as part of the authentic charm of visiting the Solomon Islands.
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Nusatupe Airport (GZO) offers 6 flight routes operated by 1 airline. The primary operator is Solomon Airlines. Popular destinations from Gizo include Choiseul Bay, Balalae, Honiara Int'l, Munda and Seghe.
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Solomon Airlines
SOL
/ IE
|
6 | 41 | 6 | Jan 27, 2026 |
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
14/32 |
2871 ft | 75 ft | UNK | Active |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|
The primary 'taxi' service from Nusatupe Airport is not a car, but a motorized boat (often called a 'tinnie' or 'banana boat'). The airport is on an island separate from the main town of Gizo, requiring a 10-15 minute boat ride across the lagoon. Boat operators meet all arriving flights. Standard car taxis are available in Gizo town once you arrive by boat.
There are no car rental agencies located at Nusatupe Airport. Car rental options in the town of Gizo are extremely limited or non-existent. The primary mode of transportation for visitors in the region is by boat and walking.
The main form of public transport is the network of motorized boats that act as water taxis. These boats connect the airport island to Gizo town and other nearby islands and resorts. It is common and highly recommended for travelers to pre-arrange boat transfers directly with their hotel or dive operator.