Omkalai Airport

The airport was closed due to a combination of urban encroachment and operational redundancy. As the population of the surrounding area grew, the community began to build houses and establish gardens on the airstrip land. Furthermore, its role was superseded by the larger and better-maintained Kundiawa Airport (IATA: CMU, ICAO: AYKD), located only a few kilometers away, which could handle larger aircraft and more consistent traffic, making the smaller Omkalai strip economically unviable.

The site of the former Omkalai Airport has been completely redeveloped into a residential area. High-resolution satellite imagery confirms that the entire length of the former runway is now densely covered with houses, community buildings, gardens, and footpaths. There is no trace of any remaining aviation infrastructure, and the land has been fully absorbed by the local settlement.

In its active years, Omkalai Airport was a vital 'bush strip' typical of the PNG Highlands. Before the establishment of reliable road infrastructure, it served as a critical lifeline for the local community. It was used by missionary aviation groups (like Mission Aviation Fellowship - MAF) and third-level commercial airlines for transporting essential supplies, mail, medicine, government officers, and local residents. The airstrip was designed for STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft, such as the Britten-Norman Islander and Cessna 206, and was essential for performing medical evacuations from the remote region.

There are zero plans or prospects for reopening Omkalai Airport. Reopening is considered impossible due to the extensive and permanent residential development that now occupies the site. Any attempt to re-establish an airstrip would require the mass demolition of homes and relocation of a significant community. The aviation needs of the region are adequately met by the nearby Kundiawa Airport.