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Boram Airport

About the Airport

Boram Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Boram Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a true gateway to one of the most mysterious and colourful regions of Papua New Guinea. Located right on the ocean shore, it welcomes travellers with a salty breeze and views of the endless expanse of water even before the landing gear touches the runway. For many adventure seekers, this is where the journey to the legendary Sepik River and the unique culture of local tribes begins, giving this place a special atmosphere of anticipation and discovery.

IATA Code WWK
ICAO Code AYWK
City Wewak
Distance to centre 3 km
Status Domestic
Passengers per year No official data publicly available

Airport Features and Advantages:

Boram Airport possesses a number of traits that make it an important and memorable facility for travellers:

  • Scenic Landing: Thanks to the runway's location on a narrow coastal strip, the approach and take-off occur over the ocean, providing passengers with stunning panoramic views of the coastline and tropical vegetation.
  • Gateway to the Sepik Region: This is a key hub for tourists heading to the famous crocodile festivals and excursions through the villages of the Sepik River. Most ethnographic expeditions start from here.
  • Proximity to the City: The airport is located practically within the city limits, making transfers to hotels incredibly fast and affordable — the journey takes just a few minutes.
  • Historical Significance: The airport territory lies in a zone rich in World War II history. History enthusiasts can see traces of the past in the vicinity of the air harbour.
  • Modernisation: In recent years, the airport has undergone stages of reconstruction under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Programme (CADIP), which has improved safety levels and passenger comfort.

Contact Information

Boram Airport is a small regional airport serving the city of Wewak in Papua New Guinea. Most administrative functions, including management and information support, are carried out by the National Airports Corporation (NAC) of Papua New Guinea. Consequently, direct contacts for the airport itself may be unavailable, and it is recommended to use centralised NAC channels for communication.

  • Official Website: Boram Airport does not have its own website. It is managed by the National Airports Corporation (NAC) of Papua New Guinea. All official information is published on their site: www.nac.com.pg.
  • Help Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can contact the National Airports Corporation (NAC) by phone: +675 324 4400.
  • Airport Address: Boram Airport (WWK), Wewak, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea.
  • Email: You can send your request to the general NAC email address: info@nac.com.pg.
  • Social Media: There are no official social media accounts for the airport. You can follow the operator's news on their Facebook page.
  • Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to tracing, damaged, or delayed luggage, you must apply directly to the airline with which you arrived. Airport staff do not handle such requests.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: The best way to get help is to contact your airline's support service. For general questions regarding airport infrastructure, you can use the NAC phone or email.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Boram Airport (WWK) from the city of Wewak is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres from the centre. However, the transport system in Papua New Guinea has its own peculiarities that should be considered when planning your trip.

Public Transport. The main mode of public transport in Wewak, as in the entire country, is PMV (Public Motor Vehicles) — these are minibuses or small trucks following specific, though not always strict, routes. This is the cheapest way to get to the airport, but it requires flexibility and a readiness for adventure. Confirm the route with the driver before boarding. There are no conventional city buses, trains, or metro systems in Wewak.

Taxi and Transfer. A taxi is a more convenient option. A car can be found in the city centre or requested via your hotel. It is extremely important to agree on the cost of the trip with the driver in advance, as taximeters are rarely used. The most reliable and safe method for tourists is to book a transfer through your hotel or guest house. This guarantees you a fixed price and timely vehicle arrival.

Car Rental. You can rent a car in Wewak, which gives maximum freedom of movement. This option is suitable for experienced drivers familiar with driving conditions in the region — road conditions can be variable. Ensure you have an International Driving Permit and reliable insurance.

Parking and Travel Time. The journey from central Wewak to Boram Airport usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Airport parking consists of a simple lot where you can leave a vehicle; however, security levels may be basic, so leaving a car for a long period is not recommended.

Recommendations. For a comfortable and predictable journey, we recommend arranging a hotel transfer in advance. If you choose a taxi, always agree on the price before the trip begins. PMV is an authentic and budget-friendly experience, but allow extra time for such a trip.

Terminals and Map

Boram Airport (WWK) is a small regional airport serving the city of Wewak and the East Sepik province in Papua New Guinea. Its structure is extremely simple, making navigation intuitively clear even for first-time visitors. The airport consists of one small terminal that serves both departing and arriving passengers.

The airport layout is very compact. The terminal is a single-storey building where all key areas are within walking distance of each other. There are no complex passageways, multi-level halls, or needs for shuttles, as all operations are concentrated in one place. Departure and arrival zones are separated but located nearby, making it impossible to get lost.

Upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in a general area with several check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers pass through the single security checkpoint, which leads to a small departure lounge. For arriving passengers, there is a separate exit leading to the baggage claim area, which is also very compact and located inside the same building.

Completing all formalities at Boram Airport usually takes little time due to the low passenger traffic. Check-in and screening procedures are rarely long. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before a domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient to go through all stages without rushing and wait for boarding.

The main recommendation for navigation is simply to follow the signs and the general flow of people. Given the size of the terminal, finding the necessary counter, boarding gate, or arrival zone will not be difficult. Airport staff are always ready to help and suggest directions. Essentially, the entire path from the terminal entrance to boarding the plane will take you just a few minutes of walking.

Airport History

The history of Boram Airport (WWK) is closely intertwined with the events of World War II. It was built in the early 1940s as a Japanese military airfield called Wewak and played a key strategic role in the New Guinea campaign. The airfield served as a major base for Japanese aviation, making it a constant target for Allied attacks. In May 1945, it was captured by Australian forces, marking the end of its military chapter.

After the war ended, the airfield was converted for civil use and received its current name — Boram Airport. Since then, it has become the main air gateway for the city of Wewak and the entire East Sepik province in Papua New Guinea. Over the decades, the airport has undergone various stages of modernisation to meet the requirements of modern air travel. Its runway and terminal have been improved to accommodate turboprop aircraft operating domestic flights and linking this remote region with the capital and other parts of the country.

One of the most interesting facts related to the airport is its rich military past. The surroundings of Wewak still hold numerous remnants of those times, including aircraft wreckage and remains of military fortifications, attracting history enthusiasts from all over the world. Today, Boram Airport is not just a transport hub, but a vital artery providing passenger transport, cargo delivery, and medical evacuation for one of the most isolated regions of Papua New Guinea.

Services and Amenities

Boram Airport (WWK) is a small regional air hub serving the city of Wewak. Its infrastructure provides a basic set of amenities for passengers waiting for their flights. Given the size and status of the airport, the range of services here is more modest compared to major international hubs.

Dining and Shops at the airport are represented by small cafes and kiosks. Here you can purchase light snacks, sandwiches, soft drinks, and hot coffee. The selection of shops is limited; mainly souvenir stalls where you can buy commemorative gifts, and points of sale for essential items.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. There are no specialised business lounges or VIP lounges at the airport. Access to Wi-Fi may be limited or provided on a paid basis, so it is recommended to have an alternative way to access the internet. The number of power outlets for charging gadgets is also small — it is better to bring a portable power bank.

Banking services and currency exchange are generally not provided within the airport territory. It is recommended to resolve all financial matters, including currency exchange, in advance in the city of Wewak. There may be an ATM in the terminal, but its operation is not always stable. There is no specialised medical centre, but staff can provide basic first aid in an emergency.

Travellers with children and passengers with reduced mobility should notify their airline in advance regarding the need for special assistance, for example, for escorting through the airport territory. Dedicated mother and child rooms may be absent. There are no hotels or conference rooms within the airport itself; all nearest hotels and business services are available in the city of Wewak.

Dining

Boram Airport (WWK) is a small regional air hub serving the city of Wewak, so the choice of catering establishments here is quite modest. Passengers should not expect the variety typical of large international airports. Dining options are generally concentrated in the main terminal building in the public area, before passing through security control.

Usually, there are one or two small kiosks or cafes operating at the airport. You can purchase basic items for a snack: soft drinks, bottled water, packet juices, coffee, and tea. Regarding food, simple snacks are most often available, such as sandwiches, local pastries, crisps, and chocolate. This is quite enough to quickly satisfy hunger before a flight.

Prices for snacks and drinks are typically higher than in the city. It is recommended to carry cash in the local currency (Kina) for ease of payment, as cashless payment options may be limited.

Sometimes simple local dishes or fresh tropical fruits can be found on the menu, offering a chance to experience the gastronomy of Papua New Guinea. However, finding specialised options, for example, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, is practically impossible here. Travellers with strict dietary requirements are strongly advised to bring food with them.

The opening hours of local establishments depend directly on the flight schedule — they open a few hours before departure and close shortly after the last plane leaves. If you wish to have a full meal, it is better to do so at one of the restaurants in Wewak before arriving at the airport. The local cafes at Boram Airport are ideal for buying a drink for the journey or a light snack.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through Boram Airport goes smoothly, it is worth considering a few features of this transport hub in the city of Wewak. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. Although the airport is small, the extra time will allow you to go through all procedures without rushing, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

Check-in and screening processes here generally move faster than in major international hubs. However, always have your passport and ticket ready. Check your hand luggage in advance for prohibited items (sharp objects, liquids over 100 ml in a single container) to avoid delays at the security checkpoint.

When flying within Papua New Guinea, try to choose a window seat. From above, stunning views of dense jungles, rugged coastlines, and mountains open up. This spectacle will become part of your adventure in itself. Do not forget to put essentials in your hand luggage: documents, money, a portable charger, and personal medication.

If you have a connecting flight, it will most likely be in Port Moresby. Plan sufficient time between flights, as delays due to weather conditions are not uncommon. Customs control for international flights is usually carried out at the first airport of arrival in the country. Be prepared to present luggage for inspection and declare imported goods if necessary.

To save money, try to book flight tickets in advance, as their cost can increase significantly closer to the departure date. Also, check your airline's baggage allowance to avoid expensive excess weight fees. Saving time is possible thanks to online check-in, if it is available for your flight.

Flight delays and cancellations can happen, mainly due to changeable tropical weather. In this case, have a book, a charged power bank, or pre-downloaded content on your phone with you. Remain calm and maintain contact with airline representatives to receive the latest flight information.

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