Lou Island Airstrip

Military Demobilization. The airstrip was a purpose-built military airfield constructed by the United States during World War II. Following the end of the war and the cessation of hostilities in the Pacific theater, the base was no longer strategically required by Allied forces. It was abandoned as part of the widespread demobilization and consolidation of military assets in the region.

The airstrip is completely abandoned and non-operational. Satellite imagery of the location shows a distinct, straight clearing through the vegetation that marks the footprint of the former runway. The surface is now entirely overgrown with grass and shrubs, making it unusable for any type of aircraft. The clearing appears to be used by the local population as a walking path or open space. There is no remaining aviation infrastructure such as buildings, hangars, or navigation aids.

Lou Island Airstrip was constructed by US Navy Seabees (Naval Construction Battalions) in 1944 during the Admiralty Islands campaign. This campaign was a critical part of the Allied 'Operation Cartwheel' strategy to isolate and neutralize the major Japanese base at Rabaul. The airstrip on Lou Island served as a satellite or auxiliary field to the much larger air and naval bases being developed on Manus and Los Negros Islands. Its primary function was to support light aircraft operations, likely for reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and liaison flights. It would have hosted scout planes like the Vought OS2U Kingfisher, which could support naval fleet operations and conduct anti-submarine patrols in the surrounding waters. Its existence was vital for local air superiority and security during a pivotal stage of the Pacific War.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening the Lou Island Airstrip. The primary air transport hub for Manus Province is Momote Airport (IATA: MAS, ICAO: AYMO) on the nearby island of Los Negros, which serves the entire region. The cost to clear, survey, rebuild, and certify the historic airstrip would be substantial. Given the small population of Lou Island and the established sea transport links to the main islands, there is no economic or logistical justification for its reopening.