Juba International Airport is the only international airport in South Sudan, the world's youngest nation, and is of vital importance to this landlocked country. The airport's existing main runway was built in the 1980s and can only accommodate aircraft with fewer than 200 seats. It lacks airfield lighting and is unable to support night-time takeoffs and landings. Due to years of disrepair caused by conflict and other factors, the runway is riddled with ruts and cracks, posing significant safety hazards and urgently requiring large-scale renovation and expansion.
After the completion of Phase I of the Juba International Airport expansion and renovation project, the runway was extended from the original 2,400 meters to 3,100 meters. The maximum aircraft size that can be accommodated was upgraded from the Boeing 737 to the Boeing 767, enabling 24-hour operations. With a comprehensive upgrade of airport functions, Juba International Airport has become a truly modern international airport.
Beijing Jinghang'an Airport Engineering Co., Ltd. undertook the construction of the visual aid-to-navigation lighting system and air traffic control systems at the airport. The construction period lasted 18 months, from December 2014 to May 2016.
