Losuia Airport – LSA Losuia, Papua New Guinea (LSA)
The Losuia Airport (LSA) is an airport in Losuia, on the island of Kiriwina, Papua New Guinea. It commenced operation in 1943. Then known as Kiriwina Airfield, the runway was built by US Army Engineers assisted by calvary troops shortly after they occupied the island during World War II. The first recorded aircraft to land in the airstrip was a C-47. The airport continued to be used by American and Australian aircraft all throughout the war. It was attacked by a Japanese aircraft in 1943. Post war saw the airport being used as a public civil airport. Flights to Losuia were suspended in 2018 when a disgruntled mob thrashed the terminal and dug a hole in the runway in post-electoral violence. It has since been repaired and tested.
Best Time to Visit
The LSA-Losuia Airport is still lacking in facilities however, it is able to maintain operations of scheduled flights to the capital Port Moresby and Gurney Airport in Alotau twice a week. The terminal is a bare structure with only basic amenities. Travelers to the idyllic village of Losuia greatly benefit from the airport’s close proximity to the places of interest in the island.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Lodgings located within the island of Kiriwina are not too many. In fact, it may take a little effort to find one near the LSA airport since tourism infrastructure in the island is only in its infancy. However there are hotels in the nearby Alotau, such as the Driftwood Resort, and the Alotau International Hotel.