Buka Airport (BUA)

Buka Island, PG 🇵🇬 Medium Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

AYBK

IATA

BUA

Elevation

11 ft

Region

PG-NSB

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: AYBK

Local Code: Not available

Location: -5.422299° N, 154.672698° E

Continent: Oceania

Type: Medium Airport

Arrivals
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Departures
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What Travelers Say

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Online Reviews Summary

Traveler sentiment at Buka Airport (AYBK (BUA)) is largely negative due to significantly underdeveloped facilities and recent security concerns, though some appreciate its relaxed atmosphere and role as a cultural gateway. Despite a failed terminal upgrade, the airport remains the primary air access point for Bougainville.

What Travelers Love
  • Laid-back Atmosphere: Many travelers find the airport to have a relaxed environment, which can make the check-in and boarding processes feel less stressful.
  • Friendly Local Staff: Passengers are often greeted by welcoming local staff.
  • Cultural Gateway: The airport is seen as a gateway to the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Bougainville, sometimes showcasing local art and crafts.
  • Proximity to Local Amenities: It is close enough to local establishments like Travelers Inn and Reasons Cafe for food and accommodation options.
Common Complaints
  • Sub-standard and Incomplete Terminal Facilities: A terminal upgrade initiated in 2021 remains unsatisfactorily completed, leaving the facilities in a sub-standard condition.
  • Poor Waiting and Baggage Areas: Incoming passengers experience a "rusting galvanized iron" shed for baggage retrieval that is cramped and unventilated. Outgoing passengers face cramped check-in areas with inadequate ceiling fans and no seating.
  • Lack of Essential Amenities: The airport terminal lacks a public address system for important announcements. Beyond basic services, there are effectively no other amenities or activities to engage in.
  • Recent Security Concerns: In April 2024, a security breach involving an angry mob forced an Air Niugini flight to return to Port Moresby, highlighting significant safety concerns that led to a commitment for increased permanent police presence.
  • Unreliable Flights: Flights from Port Moresby and Rabaul are often described as unreliable and prone to double-booking.

Overall, Buka Airport offers a raw and basic entry point to Bougainville. While appreciated for its local charm and friendly faces, travelers should manage expectations regarding modern airport conveniences, cleanliness, and security, especially in light of recent events.

Last updated: 61 days ago

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AI-Generated: Compiled from publicly available reviews. May not be current or accurate.

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Airport Routes

Route Network Map

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Top Routes (by observations)

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Popular Flight Routes

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Top Airlines

Operating at Buka Airport

Airlines by Flight Activity

Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Air Niugini
ANG / PX
2 6 2 Jan 19, 2026
Showing top 1 airlines by flight activity. Data includes observed departures and route networks from this airport.

For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
04/22 5125 ft 98 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
RDO LAE RDO 127.1 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
BUK Buka NDB-DME 269 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

Taxis, often privately owned vehicles, are typically available upon flight arrivals. The airport is very close to Buka town, so the ride is short. It is highly recommended to agree on a fare with the driver before starting your trip as meters are not used.

Rental Cars

There are no major international car rental company desks at Buka Airport. Vehicle rentals, usually 4WDs, can be pre-arranged through local hotels, guesthouses, or tour operators. Booking in advance is essential.

Public Transportation

Formal public bus services do not operate from the airport. The main form of public transport is the PMV (Public Motor Vehicle), which are privately-owned minibuses. These do not follow a strict schedule but can be found on the main road near the airport for a low-cost travel option.

AI-Generated Content: This ground transportation information was compiled using AI from publicly available sources. Prices, schedules, and availability may change; please verify with official airport or transportation provider websites before traveling.

Nearby Airports

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SBV • AYSH
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~45 km away
Wakunai Airport
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~78 km away
Torokina Airport
TOK • TOK
Torokina, PG
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~96 km away
Nissan Island Airport
IIS • AYIA
Nissan Island, PG
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~113 km away
Karato Airport
KAF • KAF
Karato, PG
Small Airport
~117 km away
Arawa Airport
RAW • RAW
Arawa, PG
Small Airport
~133 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.