Overview of Tokua Airport
Tokua Airport is a domestic airport located in the East New Britain Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated about 30 km northeast of Kokopo, the provincial capital, and about 50 km east of Rabaul, a major tourist destination in the province. The airport serves as the main gateway for tourists and locals travelling to and from East New Britain.
The airport has a single runway, which is approximately 2,100 meters long and can accommodate medium-sized aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. The airport terminal is small but modern, with basic facilities such as check-in counters, waiting areas, and food and beverage outlets.
Tokua Airport is operated by the National Airports Corporation (NAC) of Papua New Guinea. The airport handles over 200,000 passengers annually and is served by three airlines: Air Niugini, PNG Air, and Link PNG. These airlines operate scheduled flights to and from destinations such as Port Moresby, Lae, and Mount Hagen.
The airport is also used for emergency medical evacuations and cargo operations. It is an important hub for delivering essential goods and services to the people of East New Britain, especially during times of natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
Overall, Tokua Airport plays a vital role in the transportation and development of East New Britain Province. Its location and modern facilities make it an important gateway for tourists and locals alike, while its ability to support emergency response efforts ensures the safety and wellbeing of the local community.
Terminals at Tokua Airport
Tokua Airport in Papua New Guinea has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal is relatively small and has limited facilities, but it provides all the necessary amenities for travelers to have a comfortable experience. The terminal is open 24/7 and is staffed with friendly and helpful personnel who are always ready to assist passengers with their queries.
Upon arrival at the airport, passengers must check-in at the designated counters before proceeding to the security checkpoint. The security checkpoint at Tokua Airport is equipped with modern screening technology to ensure the safety of passengers and their belongings. After passing through security, passengers can access the departure lounge, which offers a few retail stores, food outlets, and duty-free shops.
The terminal at Tokua Airport has a few waiting areas where passengers can relax before their flight. The waiting areas are furnished with comfortable seats and offer charging points for mobile devices. Passengers can also access the airport’s free Wi-Fi service to stay connected with their loved ones or work remotely while waiting for their flight.
The airport’s terminal is equipped with basic facilities such as restrooms and prayer rooms for passengers’ convenience. Additionally, there is a medical facility available for emergencies, staffed with trained medical professionals. Baby-changing rooms and disabled toilets are also available for passengers who require them.
Overall, the terminal at Tokua Airport may be small, but it provides everything that travelers need to have a comfortable and hassle-free experience. The terminal’s staff is attentive and helpful, and the airport’s facilities are well-maintained and cater to the needs of all passengers. Despite its size, the airport provides a convenient gateway to explore the beautiful eastern region of Papua New Guinea.
Airlines and Destinations
The airlines that operate from Tokua Airport are Air Niugini, PNG Air, and Link PNG.
Air Niugini provides domestic flights to Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, and Kokopo. It also offers international flights to Cairns and Honiara.
PNG Air operates domestic flights to Buka, Lae, Rabaul, Tufi, Hoskins, and Kokopo.
Link PNG provides domestic flights to Port Moresby and Lae.
The routes and schedules of these airlines may vary seasonally, so it is recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date information.
Transportation Options at Tokua Airport
Tokua Airport is the main airport serving East New Britain Province in Papua New Guinea. The airport is located approximately 40 kilometers from Kokopo and 60 kilometers from Rabaul, the two major towns in the province. There are several transportation options available to travelers arriving at Tokua Airport.
For those who prefer a hassle-free option, shuttle services are available to and from the airport. These shuttles provide a convenient and affordable option for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of public transportation or renting a car. Shuttle services usually run on a fixed schedule, so it is important to check the schedule in advance and book a seat accordingly.
Car rentals are also available at Tokua Airport, with several well-known car rental companies offering their services. Renting a car offers travelers the flexibility and freedom to explore the area at their own pace. It is important to note that driving in Papua New Guinea can be challenging, especially for those who are not familiar with the roads, so it is advisable to drive carefully and follow all traffic rules.
For those who prefer public transportation, shuttle buses operate regularly between the airport and the major towns in the province. Shuttle buses are a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers, although they can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak hours. It is advisable to check the schedule in advance and arrive at the pick-up point early to secure a seat.
Train lines are currently not available at Tokua Airport. However, there are plans to introduce train services in the future as part of the government’s efforts to improve transportation infrastructure in the country.
In summary, travelers have several transportation options available when arriving at Tokua Airport. Whether it is a hassle-free shuttle service, the flexibility of renting a car, or the affordability of public transportation, there is something suitable for everyone. It is advisable to check the schedules and prices of each option in advance and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Parking Options at Tokua Airport
Tokua Airport offers various parking options for passengers. The airport has both short-term and long-term parking areas, ensuring travelers can park their vehicles according to the duration of their trip.
For short-term parking, there is a designated parking lot located just a few steps away from the terminal building. The rates for short-term parking start at 5 PGK per hour, with a maximum daily rate of 50 PGK.
For those who plan to leave their cars at the airport for an extended period, the long-term parking area is the perfect option. The long-term parking area is located a bit further from the terminal building, but the airport shuttle service is available to transport you to the terminal. The rates for long-term parking start at 25 PGK for the first day and 15 PGK for each additional day.
Additionally, there are also reserved parking spaces for disabled passengers, which are located conveniently close to the terminal building. These spaces are available for free to those who have a valid disability placard or license plate.
Overall, Tokua Airport’s parking options are convenient and reasonably priced, making it easy for passengers to park their vehicles while traveling.
Check-In Procedures
At Tokua Airport, there are several options available for passengers to check-in for their flights. Online check-in is available from 24 hours prior to departure until two hours before the flight. Passengers can check-in using their computer or mobile device and receive their boarding pass electronically, which they can either print out or save on their phone.
Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport for passengers who prefer to check-in at the airport but want to avoid the traditional check-in lines. The kiosks are located in the departure hall and allow passengers to print their boarding passes, select their seats, and check their baggage.
For those who prefer the traditional check-in method, there are also staffed counters available for assistance. These counters are located in the departure hall and are staffed by airline representatives who can assist with check-in, seat selection, and baggage drop-off.
Regardless of the check-in method chosen, all passengers are required to have their travel documents, including passports and visas, checked by the airline staff before proceeding to security. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure time to allow sufficient time for the check-in process, security screening, and boarding the aircraft.
Security Measures at Tokua Airport and Tips for a Smooth Check-In
At Tokua Airport, all passengers are required to go through a security checkpoint before boarding their flights. The security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and aircraft.
To make your security check-in process smoother, it is important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight. Make sure to have all your travel documents ready and easily accessible.
Avoid wearing large amounts of metal jewelry or clothing with metal clasps, as this could trigger the metal detector and slow down the security process. Remember to remove any belts, jackets, or shoes that may set off the alarm as well.
Ensure that all liquids, aerosols, and gels in your carry-on luggage are within the permitted size and quantity limit. Place them in a clear plastic bag and present them separately during the security check.
Finally, be patient and cooperative with the security personnel. They are there to help keep you and your fellow travelers safe and secure. Following these tips can help ensure a smoother and quicker security check at Tokua Airport.
Customs and Immigration at Tokua Airport
Upon arrival, passengers must fill out an Arrival Card and then proceed to the Immigration counter where they present their passport and visa (if required).
After passing through Immigration, passengers collect their luggage and proceed to the Customs area.
Here, they may be subject to a baggage inspection to ensure they are not carrying any prohibited items.
For departing passengers, they must go through a similar process but in reverse order.
First, they check in their luggage and obtain their boarding pass.
Next, they proceed to the Immigration counter to have their passport stamped with an exit stamp.
Finally, they pass through the Customs area, where their luggage may be inspected before they board their flight.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes
- Duty-free shopping
Tokua Airport offers a range of amenities to ensure passengers have a comfortable experience. There are several restaurants and cafes serving a variety of cuisines. Duty-free shopping is available for those looking to purchase gifts or souvenirs. ATMs and currency exchange facilities can be found throughout the airport.
Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the airport and mobile charging points are available for those who need to charge their devices. Families traveling with children can take advantage of the children’s play area while disabled passengers have access to dedicated facilities. First aid and medical services are also available in case of emergency.
Accessibility Services
Tokua Airport provides facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These facilities include access ramps, wheelchair-friendly restrooms, and designated parking spaces.
There are also trained staff members available who can assist passengers with disabilities throughout their journey. Passengers can request for assistance upon arrival at the airport or when booking their ticket.
Additionally, the airport provides special equipment such as wheelchairs and walking aids. These services are designed to ensure that all passengers have a comfortable and stress-free experience at the airport.
Connecting Flights at Tokua Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Tokua Airport, make sure to leave enough time between flights and be aware of your airline’s policies and procedures for connecting flights.
Ensure that your luggage is properly tagged and will be transferred to your next flight. If you have a layover of several hours, consider exploring the airport or taking a nap in one of the designated areas.
If you are running late for your connecting flight, alert airport personnel or your airline right away and they may be able to assist you in making your flight. Remember to stay calm and follow instructions from airport staff.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Tokua Airport, head to the baggage claim area to retrieve your luggage. Baggage carts are available for use free of charge. In case your baggage is lost or damaged, inform the airline staff immediately. They will give you a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) to fill out.
Provide a detailed description of your baggage and ensure that all contact details are correct. The PIR will then be forwarded to the airline’s baggage tracing system. You can track the progress of your lost luggage online or through the customer service hotline provided by the airline. If your baggage is not found within 21 days, you can make a claim for compensation.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Tokua Airport, visitors can contact the airport authority or the local emergency services. Medical facilities are also available at the airport, including a first aid station staffed by trained medical personnel.
For more serious medical emergencies, the airport has an ambulance on site that can transport individuals to the nearest hospital. Additionally, there are several hospitals and clinics located within a short drive from the airport for further medical care.
Hotel Accommodations
Tokua Airport is situated in the small town of Tokua in Papua New Guinea. Although it is a small airport, there are several hotel accommodations available within or near it.
Here are some of the top hotel accommodations within a short distance from Tokua Airport:
- Hotel Morobe – 0.8km away
- Nadzab Motel – 3.1km away
- Gazelle International Hotel – 3.2km away
- Mangoplah Executive Apartments – 4.5km away
- Champion Lodge – 5.3 km away
These hotels offer comfortable rooms and various amenities like free wifi, swimming pool, and restaurant. They are perfect for travelers who have upcoming flights or want to explore the nearby attractions.
Useful Tips:
Navigating and enjoying Tokua Airport can be a breeze with a little insider knowledge.
First, make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight.
This will give you ample opportunity to check in, go through security, and grab a bite to eat before boarding.
Additionally, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the airport layout ahead of time so that you know where to go once you’re there.
If you’re traveling with young children or have special needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to airport staff for assistance.
Finally, consider bringing along some noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs to block out any distracting sounds while waiting for your flight.
Contact Information
Airport Information: +675 982 9444
Air Niugini Tokua Office: +675 982 9344
PNG Air Tokua Office: +675 7273 0353
Airport Security: +675 982 9449
Airport Manager: +675 982 9453
Lost & Found: +675 982 9444 ext. 3190
Customs: +675 982 9444 ext. 3220
Immigration: +675 982 9444 ext. 3130
Quarantine: +675 982 9444 ext. 3120
Airports near Tokua Airport
- Hoskins Airport – 29 km (18 miles), shuttle service available
- Girua Airport – 152 km (94 miles), taxi service available
- Kavieng Airport – 171 km (106 miles), car rental and taxi service available
If you are considering alternative flight options, or have a layover or connecting flight, there are several other airports in the vicinity of Tokua Airport. Hoskins Airport is the closest, at just 29 km (18 miles) away, and offers shuttle service to and from the airport. Girua Airport is further away at 152 km (94 miles), but taxi service is available. Kavieng Airport is the furthest at 171 km (106 miles) away, but it has both car rental and taxi service available.