๐ธ๐ง Gizo, Solomon Islands
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.
Nusatupe Airport (GZO) is a unique and remarkably scenic aviation facility serving the town of Gizo in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. For travelers, the most critical tip is that the airport is located on its own tiny coral islet (Nusatupe), entirely separate from the main Gizo town. Upon arrival, the only way to reach Gizo or your resort is via a 10 to 15-minute boat transfer. Most major resorts provide pre-arranged boat pickups, while local 'banana boats' (motorboats) meet every scheduled flight to provide communal transport to the Gizo town pier for a small fee. Scheduled commercial service is domestic, operated by Solomon Airlines with small turboprop aircraft like the De Havilland Twin Otter.
Flights primarily connect GZO to the national capital, Honiara (HIR), and the regional hub of Munda (MNY). The approach into Nusatupe is considered one of the most beautiful in the Pacific, offering incredible views of the coral reefs and the sunken volcanic peak of Kolombangara. Because this is a very basic facility with minimal infrastructure, there are no ATMs, shops, or cafes at the terminal. It is mandatory to handle all banking and specialized provisioning in Honiara or Gizo town.
Baggage weight limits are strictly enforced on these small aircraft (typically 16kg); ensure your gear is compact to avoid steep excess fees. The regional climate is tropical and humid, with a significant rainy season from November to April that can occasionally lead to flight delays due to visibility. When connecting back to an international flight in Honiara, always allow for a full 24-hour buffer in the capital to account for the unpredictable nature of island aviation. Gizo is a world-class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling; ensure your dive operator is aware of your arrival boat transfer.
โข Check ahead for limited amenities and operating hours.
โข Nusatupe serves Gizo in the Western Province of the Solomons.
โข It mainly links the islands with regional domestic services.
โข Travelers usually connect via Honiara for onward flights.
โข Keep plans flexible, since island schedules can change quickly.
Minimum domestic connection:
45 minutes
International connections:
90 minutes
Interline transfers:
120 minutes
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Last updated: April 2026 | Data Source: IATA and other airline sites and resources