Papua New Guinea Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Walter Schnaubelt says Air Niugini owes the National Airports Corporation (NAC) more than K120 million (US$29.92 million), and PNG Air owes K30 million (US$7.38 million), in non-aeronautical charges to maintain and improve airport infrastructures.
He said the K150 million (US$36.91 million) had hindered NAC’s ability to carry out upgrades, expanding terminals and improving entry points.
Schnaubelt said that despite multiple requests to have the amounts paid, they remained outstanding.
“NAC provides operational space for airlines, but does not manage their flight schedules,” he said.
“Crowding at entry points is often the result of flight delays or cancellations, which are beyond NAC’s control.
“We continue to work closely with airline operators to align operations and minimise disruptions.” Schnaubelt said NAC recognised the need to expand domestic boarding lounges and create additional entry points to ease congestion.
“But with unpaid amounts by airline operators, progress on these projects are delayed,” Schnaubelt said.
“NAC remains committed to these upgrades as soon as the funds are secured.
“The NAC management and staff strive to ensure that airports across the country operate efficiently.
“Improving passenger experiences requires collaboration from all stakeholders, including airlines, the Government, and NAC.”
Schnaubelt acknowledged public concerns raised against NAC on the Christmas and New Year peak period congestion.
“It has now eased, and traffic and operations are returning to normal at our airports,” he said.
