The newly upgraded Alotau Gurney Airport in Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea, was inaugurated, signifying improved connectivity and economic potential for the region. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) highlighted the crucial role of transport infrastructure in national development. ADB Senior Transport Specialist Bashirullah Khpalwan emphasized that such infrastructure acts as the “backbone of development”. The airport’s opening is seen as a boost to confidence and opportunity for the people of Papua New Guinea. Access to a report on this development is restricted to paid subscribers of the Post Courier. The upgrade underscores the importance of investment in transport networks for economic growth in the country.