A regional approach

One of the most comprehensive aviation sector improvement and reform programs ever undertaken in the Pacific is underway

The World Bank-funded Pacific Aviation Investment Program (PAIP) is helping Pacific Island nations to upgrade and maintain infrastructure assets, personnel capacity building and undertake a range of reviews that support policy, masterplanning, and air services agreements that aim to complement governments’ aviation sector developments. The overarching goal is to improve aviation safety and security.

Previously the World Bank primarily provided funding for national projects and in many ways PAIP presented a somewhat experimental approach in undertaking and funding projects on a regional basis. “A regional approach enabled technical and project expertise to be brought together to manage multiple projects across a number of countries. It has enabled technical and project expertise to be delivered in a cost-effective manner. PAIP has been designed to grow and has the flexibility to meet the needs of any country in the Pacific region. Any country can ‘put up their hand’ to be included,” explains PAIP program manager Lasale Cocker.