Tabubil Airport (TBG)

Tabubil Airport (IATA: TBG, ICAO: AYTB) serves as the essential aviation gateway to the remote mining town of Tabubil in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. Its primary role is to support the operations of the Ok Tedi Mine and provide a critical transportation link for its employees, contractors, and the surrounding local communities. Due to the rugged, mountainous terrain and lack of extensive road networks connecting the region to the rest of the country, the airport functions as a vital lifeline for both passengers and freight. Established in the early 1980s by Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML), the airport was purpose-built to facilitate the construction and sustained operation of the mine, and it remains a privately-owned facility with public access.

The airport is conveniently located adjacent to the town of Tabubil, making access straightforward. Travelers can typically reach the terminal within minutes by vehicle from any point in the small, planned community. Operations consist almost entirely of domestic flights, with the most frequent and important route connecting Tabubil to Port Moresby's Jacksons International Airport. Major national carriers, including Air Niugini and PNG Air, operate scheduled services. Additionally, the airport handles a significant number of charter flights for mining personnel. It also facilitates a crucial direct flight to Cairns, Australia, which serves as a primary link for the mine's expatriate workforce and specialized cargo needs.

Reflecting its functional purpose, the airport's facilities are basic and modest. It features a single, small terminal building with a check-in counter, a security screening point, and a simple waiting lounge for departing passengers. Amenities are limited, and travelers should not expect shops, restaurants, or currency exchange services within the terminal. Planning ahead for snacks and other necessities is recommended.

For those traveling through Tabubil Airport, it is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes before a scheduled flight, as check-in procedures can be unhurried. The region's extremely high rainfall means that flight delays and cancellations due to weather are common, so building flexibility into travel itineraries is crucial. Upon arrival, ground transportation is typically arranged in advance through an employer or hotel. Local taxis are available, but services are limited. Most onward domestic travel within Papua New Guinea requires a connecting flight through Port Moresby.