Wabag Airport

Operational replacement and urban growth. The primary reason for closure was the opening of the nearby Wapenamanda Airport, which was built to accommodate larger and faster aircraft like the Fokker F27 Friendship and later the F28 Fellowship jet. The old Wabag airstrip was too short, likely had a gravel or grass surface, and was located in the center of the rapidly expanding Wabag town, making it unsuitable for larger aircraft and posing a safety risk due to surrounding development.

The site of the former airport has been completely redeveloped and integrated into the urban fabric of Wabag town. The former runway is no longer visible or usable as an airstrip. A main road, known locally as 'Airport Road', now runs down a significant portion of its length. The land is occupied by various buildings, including parts of the Sir Tei Abal Secondary School, commercial structures, housing, and public spaces. The area is clearly identifiable from satellite imagery by its long, straight layout, which is characteristic of a former runway.

The Wabag airstrip was a vital lifeline for the Enga Province and its capital, Wabag, from its establishment in the post-WWII era until its closure. As a typical 'patrol post' airfield, it was crucial for the Australian administration in managing the then-remote Highlands region. It facilitated the transport of government officers, supplies, police, and medical personnel. Missionary organizations, particularly the Lutheran Mission and Missionary Aviation Fellowship (MAF), relied heavily on the airstrip to serve remote communities. Commercially, it was a key destination for third-level airlines like Talair, operating STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft such as the Britten-Norman Islander and de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter. It was the primary transportation hub for the town before the Highlands Highway became a reliable all-weather route and before the larger Wapenamanda airport was built.

None. There are no plans or prospects for reopening Wabag Airport. The land has been irreversibly re-purposed for urban development. All regional air services are handled by Wapenamanda Airport, which is the designated airport for Wabag and the wider Enga Province. Any future investment in aviation infrastructure for the region would be directed towards upgrading and maintaining Wapenamanda Airport.