Avu Avu Airport (AVU)

Avu Avu Airport (AVU) serves the remote community of Avu Avu on the southern coast of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. This small, regional airstrip is a critical link for the local population, providing essential air access where road infrastructure is limited or non-existent. The 'airport' is a minimalist facility, typically comprising a grass runway that is maintained by the local community. There is no conventional terminal building; passengers and visitors usually gather at a very basic, often open-sided, shelter that functions as a rudimentary waiting area, reflecting its role as a vital but basic lifeline for the remote coastal community.

Operational procedures at AVU are informal and highly dependent on visual flight rules (VFR) and local weather conditions. Solomon Airlines typically operates scheduled services to Avu Avu using small, propeller-driven aircraft suitable for grass strips. There are no security checkpoints, baggage handling systems, or traditional check-in counters. Passengers usually check in directly with the pilot or a local agent. Flights are prone to delays or cancellations due to tropical weather patterns, including heavy rainfall, which can significantly affect the condition of the unpaved runway.

Amenities at Avu Avu 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 the hot and humid tropical climate. All arrangements for accommodation and ground transportation within the community must be made in advance, as Avu Avu is a small, subsistence-based community with limited public facilities. The airport's sole purpose is to provide critical air access to this isolated coastal community.