Hayfields Airport (HYF)

Hayfields Airport, identified by the IATA code HYF and historically known as Maprik Airfield, is a significant regional aviation facility serving the Maprik District in the East Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea. The airport is currently undergoing a massive transformation as part of the national Civil Aviation Development Investment Program (CADIP II). This strategic modernization project aims to elevate the facility into a Level 2 regional hub, drastically improving air connectivity for the diverse agricultural and alluvial mining communities of the Sepik basin.

The centerpiece of the redevelopment is the construction of a modern passenger terminal building and the extensive strengthening of aircraft pavement. The project involves replacing the original unpaved landing strip with a robust 1,600-meter sealed runway, equipped with upgraded navigational aids and modern boundary fencing. These improvements are designed to facilitate year-round operations and allow the facility to accommodate larger Dash 8 aircraft, whereas it was previously limited to smaller Twin Otter vessels. The new terminal will provide essential amenities including organized check-in areas, enhanced security screening, and a more comfortable waiting environment for regional travelers.

Flight operations at Hayfields are expected to see a significant increase in frequency, with major domestic carriers such as PNG Air and Air Niugini expected to expand their scheduled services to the capital, Port Moresby, and the regional hub of Wewak. The airport serves as a critical link for four of East Sepik's six districts, acting as a gateway for the transport of high-value agricultural products like cocoa and vanilla. Ground transportation is primarily via local taxi and hire-car services, providing efficient access to the nearby town of Maprik and the various cultural heritage sites of the region. The facility remains a cornerstone of the province's economic development strategy, ensuring that the isolated interior of the Sepik remains well-integrated with the national transport network.