The Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Japanese company TOA Corporation launched on Monday, September 14, the construction of the new passenger terminal at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili. The project is expected to be completed by May 20, 2028.
Transport and Communications Minister Miguel Manetelu stated at the groundbreaking ceremony that the government placed confidence in TOA Corporation due to its experience and technical capacity. The official asked the company to mobilize all necessary human resources, equipment, and technical capabilities, carrying out the work with discipline, safety, and quality.
The new passenger terminal constitutes the main component of the integrated airport development and expansion program, which also includes the rehabilitation and extension of the runway from 1,850 to 2,150 meters, as well as two boarding gates. The project is funded through a loan from the Asian Development Bank, with support from the Japanese and Australian governments, and by the Timorese state through the State Budget.
The minister highlighted that Timor-Leste needs to prepare its airport infrastructure for the ASEAN presidency, warning that if construction is not completed on time, the country's leadership in the association will face great challenges. The contract with TOA Corporation was signed in February 2025.
