Tanna Airport, Vanuatu

Solar-Powered Airfield Lighting System Installation at Tanna Airport

A milestone in Vanuatu’s aviation infrastructure was achieved with the successful installation of the Solar Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) system at Whitegrass International Airport in Tanna. The installation, completed on 25 May 2025, marks a transformative step in enhancing the airport’s operational capacity and reliability.

A Vision for Growth and Reliability

The newly installed AGL system is designed to complement the existing Navigation Aids and support the increasing demand for both domestic and international flights to Tanna. With this upgrade, Whitegrass International Airport has the flexibility to operate 24/7—significantly improving its ability to service emergency, delayed, and night-time flights.

The project forms part of a broader initiative to elevate the standard of airfields across Vanuatu, a mission supported by Airport Consultancy Group (ACG) in collaboration with Airport Vanuatu Limited (AVL). ACG, with its extensive experience on the Bauerfield, Santo, and Tanna upgrade projects, played a key role in delivering the engineering and technical guidance required.

Why Solar? A Smart, Sustainable Solution

After careful evaluation, ACG and AVL identified a solar-powered AGL system as the most suitable solution for Tanna. The benefits of this decision were numerous:

• Lower Costs: Reduced capital and installation costs compared to traditional AGL systems.
• Faster Deployment: Minimal disruption to ongoing airport operations during installation.
• Flexibility for Future Expansion: Easy relocation and adaptation of components aligns with planned runway extensions.
• Proven Technology: Modern solar AGL systems are internationally recognised for performance and reliability in challenging environments.

A Collaborative Installation

Under a progressive project structure, AVL led the installation with oversight and support from ACG and supply contractor ORION. This arrangement not only reduced installation costs but also enabled AVL staff to build hands-on expertise—fostering local capacity and pride.

ACG was instrumental from inception to completion, providing:

• Engineering design and specifications.
• Tender documentation and procurement support.
• Onsite engineering oversight during installation and commissioning.

The project faced notable hurdles, including:

• Customs and administrative delays affecting clearance and delivery of equipment to site.
• Budgetary constraints and limited availability of local technical experience and construction equipment.
• Political and administrative complexities that required occasional diplomatic agility and ongoing advisory support to maintain the project momentum.

Despite these, the project maintained its course through adaptive management, strong stakeholder collaboration, and a shared commitment to success.

Final System and Compliance

The completed AGL system, fully compliant with NZ Civil Aviation Authority (NZ CAA) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, includes:

• Apron floodlighting
• Taxiway edge lighting
• Holding point lighting
• Runway edge lights
• Threshold and end lights
• Outer threshold lights
• Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPIs) – 4-unit, single bank on the left side of each runway

The technical installation works by ORION —spanning survey, set out, electrical setup and alignment setup—was completed in eight days.

A Proud Moment for Tanna

This project not only boosts the operational capability of Whitegrass International Airport but was also a testament to the dedication and resilience of AVL staff. The sense of pride and ownership displayed throughout the project reflects a growing confidence in local capacity to manage and maintain critical national infrastructure.

As flights to and from Tanna become more frequent and reliable, the successful deployment of solar-powered AGL signals a bright future for aviation in Vanuatu.