Nusatupe Airport (GZO)

Nusatupe Airport, identified by the IATA code GZO and ICAO code AGGN, is a unique regional aviation facility serving Gizo, the capital of the Western Province in the Solomon Islands. The airport is situated on Nusatupe Island, a small coral islet located approximately 2 kilometers from Gizo town. This strategic location makes the airport a vital gateway for the region's renowned diving and marine tourism industry, as well as a critical link for the local community navigating the vast Western Solomon archipelago. The airport's physical infrastructure is characterized by its island setting, featuring a single coral-surfaced runway and a modest, functional terminal building. The terminal provides essential passenger services, including a basic check-in area and a sheltered waiting hall with bench seating. Because of the island's isolation, there are no commercial retail shops, restaurants, or cafes within the terminal area; travelers are strongly advised to bring their own refreshments and essential travel items for their journey. The facility is designed for quick transitions, reflecting the relaxed and informal nature of island aviation. A defining feature of the GZO travel experience is the mandatory boat transfer required to reach the main island of Gizo. Upon arrival, passengers typically board traditional "banana boats" or specialized resort speedboats for a picturesque 10-to-15-minute transit across the turquoise waters. Flight operations are exclusively managed by Solomon Airlines, the national carrier, which maintains regular scheduled connections to the capital, Honiara, and the nearby hub at Munda. These flights are usually operated using Twin Otter or Dash 8 aircraft, providing passengers with spectacular aerial views of the surrounding lagoons and coral reefs.