Airport Overview

The airport services international flights from Fiji and Hawaii to Christmas Island. Services, infrastructure and storage facilities are quite basic but planned upgrades are in progress and due for completion in late 2018.

Airport Picture

Description and Contacts of Key Companies

The Ministry of Communications, Transport and Tourism is responsible for the administration of the airport. All cargo and baggage handling is the responsibility of Air Kiribati, a private company with offices in Tarawa and Christmas Island.   

For more information on airport contacts, please see the following link: 4.5 Airport Companies Contact List

Information on some aviation service providers can be found at: http://www.azfreight.com/

Passenger and Cargo Performance Indicator

The current facility is not adequate for demand (approx. 20% shortfall for both cargo and passenger demand). As part of a World Bank project a new terminal is under construction with completion due by the end of 2018. Baggage and cargo handling equipment is also to be installed to increase capacity. There are also plans to upgrade the runway from 737-800 to airbus capacity. There are marked seasonal variations. 50% of total volumes are done from November - January.  

Current capacity is limited by facilities. All handling is by manual labour. Upgrades are planned to be completed by the end of 2018.

Runways

The present condition is adequate but nearing the end of its life. Plans are underway for an upgrade that will accommodate up to Airbus size aircraft due for completion by the end of 2018.

Helicopter Pad(s)

There is no designated helicopter landing pad however there is plenty of open space around the terminal and runway area for landing helicopters. Due to the distances over sea to Christmas Island, helicopters are not generally a practical option in this location. Occasional fishing boat helicopters visit and landings are controlled by airport authority.

Airport Infrastructure Details

Equipment is generally regularly and well maintained. Two new fire fighting appliances have recently been added and handling equipment, navigational aids and runway lighting are all part of 2018 planned upgrades.

Airport Operating Details

Customs Guidance

Customs are present and operating in the terminal during airport operating hours for all in and outbound flights. Cargo is cleared same day and there are no issues with customs officials.

For more information on customs in Kiribati, please see the following link: 1.3 Customs Information 

Storage Facilities

Storage facilities are extremely limited. There are 2 x 20’ containers. Incoming storage is under customs control. Outgoing storage is controlled by Air Kiribati, the handling company. Rates are detailed in the tables below.

Airfield Costs

Navigation Charges

Under the Civil Aviation Act 2004 (Part V Section 46 and 47) Civil Aviation (Fees and Charges) Regulations 2014 The following fees (table below) are applicable.

Aircraft involved in search and rescue or those that have applied for exemption from the Minister will be exempt from Landing Fees.

Fuel Services Charges

Fuel service is supplied and prices set by KOIL Ltd.

Cargo Terminal Charges

Air Kiribati who are responsible for all cargo handling advise they do not have handling charges and neither do customs.

Air-bridge Charges

There is no airbridge.

Security

The airfield is partly fenced, to be completed end of 2018. There is manned security on site 24/7. The airfield does not have a current international security ranking.