Green River Airport (GVI)

Green River Airport, identified by the IATA code GVI and ICAO code AYGV, is a remote regional airstrip serving the Green River community in the Sandaun (West Sepik) Province of Papua New Guinea. Situated deep within the dense tropical rainforests of the Sepik basin, the airport serves as a vital lifeline for the local population, providing the only rapid transport link to the provincial capital of Vanimo and the national capital, Port Moresby. Its presence is essential for the delivery of medical supplies, educational materials, and regional administration in an area almost entirely inaccessible by road. The airport's physical infrastructure is modest and tailored for bush operations, featuring a single unpaved runway suitable for STOL (Short Take-off and Landing) aircraft. There is no formal passenger terminal building or standard commercial amenities such as retail shops or dining facilities; instead, the airport experience is highly informal, with passengers typically waiting in communal shaded areas near the airstrip. Travelers should note that there is no on-site fuel or technical support, and flight operations are strictly limited to daylight hours and favorable weather conditions, which can be highly unpredictable in the Sepik region. Currently, Green River Airport does not host regular scheduled commercial services from major carriers. Air connectivity is provided through specialized charter operators and mission aviation organizations, such as PNG Air and MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship), which utilize rugged aircraft like the Twin Otter or Cessna Caravan to navigate the remote terrain. These flights are often chartered for specific community needs, medical emergencies, or government logistics. Ground transportation from the airstrip is primarily via local footpaths or river transport, as the airport remains a true frontier outpost in one of the most remote parts of the Melanesian archipelago.