Uru Harbour Airport (ATD)

🏢 Terminal Guide & Navigation

Uru Harbour Airport (ATD) serves the community of Atoifi on Malaita Island in the Solomon Islands. This small, regional airstrip is critically important for connecting this remote area, especially for the Atoifi Adventist Hospital, which relies heavily on air transport for medical supplies, personnel, and patient transfers. The airport's infrastructure is minimalist, featuring a grass runway that is maintained by the local community. There is no conventional terminal building; passengers typically wait in an open-air area or a small, unsheltered spot near the runway, reflecting its role as a vital but basic lifeline.\n\nOperational procedures at ATD are informal and highly dependent on weather conditions and aircraft availability. Flights are primarily operated by Solomon Airlines using small, propeller-driven aircraft suitable for unpaved strips. There are no security checkpoints, baggage handling systems, or check-in counters. Passengers interact directly with the pilot or ground staff (often local volunteers) to confirm their manifest. Due to the nature of the unpaved runway, flights are frequently subject to delays or cancellations, particularly during heavy rainfall, which can render the strip unusable.\n\nAmenities at Uru Harbour Airport are non-existent. Travelers should not expect any facilities such as restrooms, food vendors, or retail shops. It is essential for visitors to bring all necessary provisions, including water and snacks, and to be prepared for potentially long waits in an exposed environment. Ground transportation is typically arranged by the Atoifi Adventist Hospital or by local contacts. Thorough preparation and flexibility are crucial for anyone traveling to or from this remote island location.