Tropical airstrip and small terminal at Sopu Airport near Popondetta, Papua New Guinea, framed by rainforest and distant mountains

Airport

Sopu Airport (SPH)

Sopu Airport (SPH) is a small rural gateway serving Sopu and the Goilala highlands of Central Province, Papua New Guinea. Most travelers connect by air to Port Moresby, with onward access to nearby communities such as Tapini, Guari and Woitape.

Passengers

Luggage

About Sopu Airport

Sopu Airport is a small rural airstrip serving Sopu village and the surrounding Goilala highlands of Central Province, Papua New Guinea. Using the IATA code SPH and ICAO code AYQO, it sits at an elevation of around 2,006 m and is one of the key air links for remote communities in the district.

The airstrip operates a single short runway and handles light aircraft and charter flights rather than scheduled jet services. It connects the highlands with Port Moresby, roughly 127 km to the south, and with nearby rural airstrips serving places such as Tapini, Guari and Woitape.

Because road access into the area is extremely limited, air transport is the main way in and out of the Goilala highlands. Most travelers pass through Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby and continue to Sopu by small plane, so flights should be arranged well in advance.

Facilities are basic, reflecting the airstrip's remote setting, and service availability can change, so visitors should confirm flight status with their operator before departure. For travelers, Sopu Airport functions primarily as a practical entry point for community, mission and highlands travel rather than a conventional passenger hub.

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Terminal Overview

Travelers walking beneath terminal signs inside an airport

Terminals

Sopu Airport is a small rural airstrip with a single runway rather than separate passenger terminals. Passenger handling is minimal, with flights operated by small aircraft serving the Goilala highlands communities.

Ground Transportation Services to and from Sopu Airport

Transfers

Arrange private transfers to and from Sopu Airport, including meet-and-greet support and onward travel coordination to nearby Goilala communities such as Tapini, Guari and Woitape.

Hourly Chauffeur

Book a driver by the hour for flexible travel around the Goilala highlands after arriving at Sopu Airport, or for local trips before a departing flight.

Car Rental

For independent travel around the region, arrange a rental vehicle in advance through Port Moresby, as Sopu Airport has limited road access and no dedicated rental counters on site.

Bus & Group Transfers

Organize charter vehicles for groups traveling between Sopu Airport and nearby highlands villages, mission stations, or other destinations, coordinated with flight arrivals and departures.