The Pacific Aviation Investment Program (PAIP) is funded by the World Bank (WB) and has the development objective to (i) Improve the safety, security, efficiency, management and environmental sustainability of the airports and (ii) improve regional harmonization of aviation safety standards. The Government of Vanuatu (GoV) and the WB are preparing a project to improve international airport infrastructure in Vanuatu. As part of the regional PAIP, aimed primarily at improving airport safety and security across the Pacific, the Vanuatu Aviation Investment Project (VAIP) has been established.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A. Project Components
The Project will invest in key International aviation infrastructure, navigational and communication equipment at the international airports in Vanuatu. In addition it will finance the development of an Airport Master Plan and an Aviation Sector Strategy as well as targeted technical assistance and training to identify and support long-term needs of the sector.
Component A: International Airport Infrastructure Investments.
The component will invest in international aviation infrastructure to meet and maintain minimum International Civil Aviation Organization safety and security standards. The focus will be on improving safety and security as well as operating efficiency. Potential Investments include: (i) runway, taxiway and apron rehabilitation; (ii) extension of apron and addition of taxiways; (iii) energy efficient LED airfield lighting upgrades; (iv)relocation of the domestic terminal; (v) provision of air traffic control equipment; (vi) provision of critical navigation aids; (viii) provision of improved communication technologies; (ix) provision of weather monitoring equipment; (x) strengthening the quality and efficiency of the rescue fire service; (xi) Various safety and security equipment for passenger screening and other activities; and (xii) design and supervision consulting services for these infrastructure investments.
Component B: Aviation Sector Reform and Training.
This component will help strengthen the Civil Aviation Authority of Vanuatu (CAAV), Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU) and other line ministries' technical capacity through the development of an Aviation Sector Strategy, targeted technical assistance to strengthen institutional capacity and dedicated training.
Component C: Strengthening Airport Operations and Management Capacity.
This component will finance an Airport Master Plan for Vanuatu's International Airports. Technical assistance may also be provided in areas such as training and development of non-aeronautical revenues.
Component D: Project Support.
This Component Covers: (i) project management support for the Vanuatu Project Management Unit (VPMU); (ii) project support for AVL; (iii) costs for the services provided to the VPMU and AVL by the Pacific Aviation Investment Program Technical and Fiduciary Services Unit (TFSU); (iv) incremental operating costs; (v) Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) subscription costs; and (vi) project financial audits.
B. Project Beneficiaries
Given the rapid deterioration of Bauerfield International Airport's runway, and the likely interruption to the international jet flights with the related impact on tourism, the project is of major importance to Vanuatu's population and economy. the primary beneficiaries air travelers throughout the PICs including tourists, travelers visiting friends and relatives (VFR), public administration and business travelers, seafarers and seasonal agricultural workers, and recipients of education, training and specialized health services. As the primary international gateway to the country, the rehabilitation of Bauerfield International Airport's runway will also strengthen its preparedness for the disaster and emergency relief operations.
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
Click here to download the Pacific Aviation Investment Programme (PAIP) Environmental and Social Management Plan - Bauerfield International Airport (VLI)
