Milne Bay Province seen as PNG’s next tourism hub

Gurney Airport in Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay Province is poised to become the country's inaugural Tourism Airport, marking a significant development for the region's travel and hospitality sector. The province, celebrated for its rich tapestry of 38 distinct cultures and its archipelago of 38 islands, is being strategically positioned as a premier tourism destination.

Prime Minister James Marape officially opened the upgraded Gurney Airport on Friday, announcing its new status as an international airport. This designation is expected to facilitate greater accessibility for international tourists, thereby boosting the local economy and promoting cultural exchange.

The development signifies a commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure in Milne Bay, a province that already boasts considerable natural beauty and cultural heritage. The transformation of Gurney Airport aims to attract more visitors, support local businesses, and create employment opportunities within the tourism industry.