Misima Minerals Limited (MML) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Milne Bay Provincial Government (MBPG) for MML to become the operator for the Misima Aerodrome.
The signing took place in Alotau on the 19th of June 2026.
Since 2020, Misima Aerodrome operations were suspended for third-level airlines (including PNG Air), subsequently restricting its use to small charter flights.
A functional Aerodrome will open the way for recommencement of commercial flights to Misima by big airline companies. Re-connecting Misima to the mainland by air will support growth in economic activity, improve community mobility, support the provision of health and other services on Misima and the surrounding Samari-Murua District.
- To achieve Aerodrome status requires upgrades to runway surface and other safety features per the requirement of Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea (CASAPNG). This work will be coordinated between MML, the Provincial Transport Authority, National Works Department and the local contractors doing the work, with a target completion date before end of 2026.
- MML to operate the Aerodrome under lease from the Milne Bay Provincial Transport Authority.
As a 100 per cent wholly owned subsidiary of Ok Tedi, Misima Minerals Limited has already commenced work on the enabling infrastructure projects that will benefit the host communities as well as supporting the feasibility, exploration, and future mine development works.
A comprehensive five-year plan has been developed for the Misima Gold project following its acquisition by Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) from Kingston Resources in May 2025. The plan is structured in three phases. Detailed Feasibility & Permitting, Construction, and Production.
MML commenced early works as part of phase one since February 2026 to establish the infrastructure needed to support feasibility and mine development works. Environment and social impact studies and mine development plans are being progressed to secure environmental permit and mining licence.
Infrastructure initiatives under assessment or development are;
- Establishment of the accommodation units with a health clinic, messing facilities, and basic amenities to support the project.
- Access roads to the mine site are repaired to support the mine development works as well as usage by the local communities.
Misima District Hospital is planned to be upgraded and resourced to serve the locals as well as OTML and MML staff. The Hospital will be supported to conduct pre-employment medical checks to support local Misimans’ employment.