Rennell/Tingoa Airport (RNL)

Rennell/Tingoa Airport (IATA: RNL, ICAO: AGGR) is the sole air gateway to Rennell Island, a remote part of the Solomon Islands. It provides an essential transport link for the local community, provincial government administration, and a small but growing tourism sector. The airport is the primary entry point for international visitors heading to Lake Tegano, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest lake in the insular Pacific. Its operation is critical for connecting this isolated island to the nation's capital, Honiara, facilitating the movement of people and essential supplies.

The airport's history is rooted in World War II, when the original airstrip was constructed by Japanese forces and subsequently improved by American troops. After the war, it was converted for civilian use, profoundly increasing the accessibility of the world's largest raised coral atoll. Its continued function is significant, supporting not only the local economy but also the logistical needs of one of the country's most geographically isolated provinces.

Located near the settlement of Tigoa on the western end of the island, the airport is situated a considerable distance from the main visitor accommodations around Lake Tegano. Travel from the airport to the eastern side of the island is via a rough, unpaved road, a journey that typically takes two or more hours by truck. There are no formal taxi or rental car services available upon arrival; therefore, all travelers must arrange vehicle transfers with their accommodation provider well in advance of their flight.

Operations at Tingoa are entirely domestic. Solomon Airlines is the primary carrier, offering scheduled services to and from Honiara International Airport (HIR). Flights are infrequent, often operating only a few times a week, and are serviced by small turboprop aircraft like the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, which is capable of landing on the short, unpaved runway. Passenger traffic is low, comprising a mix of local residents, government officials, and adventure tourists.

Facilities at the airport are minimal, reflecting its remote nature. The terminal consists of a very basic, open-air shelter that provides a waiting area. There are no retail shops, restaurants, or currency exchange services. Travelers should not expect amenities such as check-in counters or baggage carousels; procedures are simple and handled directly on the tarmac. It is crucial for visitors to confirm flight times, as schedules can be affected by weather and operational factors. Having pre-booked transport is non-negotiable, and carrying sufficient local currency (Solomon Islands Dollar) is essential, as there are no banking or ATM facilities on the island.