Misima Island Airport (MIS)

Common Complaints

• Unsealed Dirt Runway: A major and recurring complaint is the dirt runway which is not sealed. Its poor condition led directly to flight suspensions.
• Flight Suspensions and Operational Issues: The airport faced aerodrome closure in early 2023 due to the runway's condition, leading to the suspension of all flights by PNG Air. This causes significant disruption and unreliability for travelers.
• Lack of Modern Facilities and Amenities: Misima Island Airport appears to have minimal terminal facilities. A video from late 2021 depicted the airport as "extra quiet" with people casually walking on the runway on non-flight days, suggesting a very basic and unmanaged environment.
• Need for Infrastructure Upgrades: Reports indicate a need for comprehensive upgrades including runway sealing, fencing, and a proper drainage system to meet civil aviation regulations and ensure consistent operation.
• Potentially Long Wait Times (Estimated): While not based on recent traveler accounts during regular operations, automated systems estimate security wait times of approximately 26-29 minutes and immigration at 8 minutes. These figures should be considered with caution given the airport's operational history.
• Limited Transportation and Parking: Information on ground transport is scarce, though car hire services are mentioned as potentially cheaper away from the airport, and van hire is not currently available. Direct links from the terminal to town via main road are noted, but details on formal parking are absent.

Given the historical operational challenges and the unsealed runway, reliable air travel to Misima Island Airport has been inconsistent. Significant improvements to infrastructure are necessary to ensure a positive and dependable experience for future travelers.