Kavieng International Airport

Spokesman Richard Moni said their aim was to peacefully get the attention of Kavieng Open MP and National Treasurer, Ian Ling-Stuckey, who was flying out of the province yesterday morning.

Arriving at the airport they questioned Ling-Stuckey on their outstanding compensation payments for the upgrading of the airport extension.

The landowners said they did not get a favourable response from him.

Prime Minister James Marape led a delegation of ministers and heads of agencies, including Chinese Ambassador Xue Bing, to New Ireland Province.

New Ireland Governor, Sir Julius Chan, in his opening remarks said the airport will stimulate the economy in the province and the country as a whole.

He reiterated the airport will be constructed to uniquely have the New Ireland flavour.

Civil Aviation Minister, Lekwa Gure, said the development of the upgraded airport will be funded under the Asian Development Bank at a cost of K91 million.