Santa Ana Airport (NNB)

Santa Ana Airport, identified by the IATA code NNB and ICAO code AGGT, is a small domestic airstrip that serves as a critical transportation link for the community of Santa Ana Island in the Makira-Ulawa Province of the Solomon Islands. As the primary air access point to this remote island, the airport plays a fundamental role in connecting residents to the provincial capital, Kirakira, and the national capital, Honiara. Its existence is essential for the movement of people, delivery of essential goods, medical evacuations, and supporting the island's small-scale tourism industry, which is centered on its well-preserved traditional culture and natural environment.

The history of the airstrip is tied to the post-war development of the Solomon Islands, built to provide reliable transport to an otherwise isolated community reliant on infrequent and often difficult sea journeys. Its significance lies not in major historical events but in its consistent, practical function as a lifeline. The airport consists of a single, unpaved grass or coral runway. It is located on the main island of Santa Ana (also known as Owaraha), positioned within walking distance of the primary villages. Travelers arriving at the airstrip typically reach their final destination, such as a local guesthouse or village, on foot, as there are no formal taxi services or rental vehicles available on the island.

Operations at Santa Ana Airport are exclusively domestic and are characterized by a low volume of traffic. The national carrier, Solomon Airlines, is the sole operator, providing scheduled flights using small turboprop aircraft like the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, which are suited for short, unpaved runways. Flights are infrequent, typically operating on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, connecting Santa Ana with Kirakira Airport (IRA) and Honiara International Airport (HIR). Passenger traffic consists mainly of local residents, government workers, and a small number of international visitors exploring the outer islands.

Facilities at the airport are rudimentary, aligning with its role as a remote regional airstrip. There is no formal terminal building; instead, a simple open-air shelter may provide protection from the sun and rain. There are no check-in counters, lounges, shops, restaurants, or baggage claim carousels. Luggage is offloaded directly from the aircraft by hand. For travelers, it is crucial to plan ahead. Flights should be booked well in advance and reconfirmed close to the travel date, as schedules can be affected by weather or operational requirements. It is essential to carry sufficient local currency (Solomon Islands Dollars), as there are no banking or ATM facilities on the island. Visitors should also bring their own water and snacks, and arrange any onward boat transfers or accommodation prior to arrival.