Port Moresby’s Jacksons International Airport sits in one of the world’s highest-risk transit zones—Level 3: Reconsider Travel according to Australian, New Zealand, and US government advisories. The security protocol is unambiguous: do not exit the terminal during layovers unless absolutely necessary, and never attempt independent exploration regardless of layover duration.
The area immediately surrounding POM presents elevated violent crime risk, including carjackings, armed robbery, and opportunistic assaults targeting foreign travelers. For passengers transiting through Papua New Guinea’s capital between January and December 2026, the standard protocol requires staying airside in the international terminal for layovers under 6 hours, or booking pre-arranged secure hotel shuttles for overnight connections. Walking outside the terminal—even to nearby hotels visible on maps—is strongly discouraged by all Western government advisories.
Why POM requires different protocols than typical Asian hubs
Port Moresby differs fundamentally from transit hubs like Singapore, Dubai, or Hong Kong where landside exploration enhances the travel experience. Air Traveler Club’s travel advisory monitoring system flagged PNG as requiring elevated protocols based on three converging factors: high violent crime rates in the airport perimeter zone, limited secure transport infrastructure, and recent security incidents demonstrating ongoing threats.
On January 7, 2026, PNG Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers intercepted 11 rounds of live ammunition in passenger luggage at POM—a reminder that security threats extend beyond the terminal walls. While airside screening works effectively, landside areas lack equivalent protection.
The Australian government’s Level 3 advisory for PNG specifically warns against walking alone or in groups, using unverified taxis, or venturing out at night. New Zealand’s SafeTravel mirrors this guidance, emphasizing hotel transport only for any landside movement.
The POM layover decision matrix
Your protocol depends entirely on connection duration. This matrix reflects current government advisories and experienced PNG traveler consensus:
| Layover Duration | Recommended Action | Risk Level | Secure Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 6 hours | Stay airside | Low (if compliant) | Terminal lounges, Air Niugini facilities |
| 6-12 hours | Airside preferred; hotel shuttle if needed | Medium | Airways Hotel official shuttle |
| 12-24 hours | Mandatory hotel + shuttle | High external | Airways or Gateway Hotel pre-booked |
| Over 24 hours | Hotel only; avoid all city movement | Very High | Rebook routing if possible |
The proximity of hotels on Google Maps is deceptive. Airways Hotel sits approximately 800 meters from the terminal—a distance that appears walkable but crosses through areas where violent incidents occur regularly. Use the hotel’s secure shuttle service exclusively, even for this short distance.
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Booking secure overnight connections
For layovers requiring landside accommodation, two hotels offer airport-exclusive secure shuttles recognized in government travel advisories:
Airways Hotel operates the most established secure transfer service, with armored vehicles and trained drivers. Book shuttle service directly with the hotel minimum 48 hours before arrival—walk-up requests cannot be guaranteed. Expect AUD $200-350 per night including transfer.
Gateway Hotel provides similar secure shuttle arrangements at slightly lower rates (AUD $150-250). Both properties understand transit passenger protocols and coordinate pickup timing with flight arrivals.
Air Niugini’s 3-hour rule
The national carrier mandates arriving 3 hours before international departures at POM—longer than typical Asian hubs. This buffer accounts for security screening intensity and potential disruptions. Factor this into hotel shuttle timing for early morning connections.
Critical booking note: Confirm shuttle arrangements 48-72 hours before arrival. During peak periods or special events, secure transport capacity fills quickly. If the hotel cannot confirm shuttle availability, consider rebooking your routing through an alternative hub.
When standard protocols don’t apply
Several edge cases require modified approaches:
- Domestic-to-international connections force landside transit through customs. If your routing involves a domestic PNG flight connecting to an international departure, you must clear immigration landside. Arrange hotel shuttle immediately rather than waiting in unsecured areas.
- Medical emergencies requiring hospital access should be coordinated through your airline and local police—never attempt independent transport to medical facilities.
- Groups or families face higher visibility risk, not lower. Government advisories specifically note that walking in groups does not reduce crime targeting. Shuttle protocols apply regardless of party size.
- VIP or fast-track passengers receive no exemption from landside security concerns. Premium lounge access improves airside comfort but doesn’t change external threat levels.
For travelers routing through POM to reach destinations like other Asia-Pacific countries, consider whether alternative hub connections might reduce risk exposure entirely. Singapore, Brisbane, or Cairns often provide comparable routing options without Level 3 advisory concerns.
Monitoring advisories before departure
PNG security situations can change rapidly. Civil unrest, tribal conflicts, and political instability periodically escalate beyond baseline crime concerns. Check government advisories within 72 hours of departure—not just at booking time.
Key monitoring sources:
- Australian Smartraveller: Most detailed PNG-specific guidance for the region
- New Zealand SafeTravel: Complementary transport and driving warnings
- US State Department: Mirrors Level 3 assessment with American-specific consular information
- Air Niugini travel advisories: Airline-specific disruption alerts and security updates
If advisories escalate to Level 4 (Do Not Travel) before your departure, most airlines permit rebooking without penalty. Document the advisory change for any fare rule disputes.
Questions? Answers.
Can I leave the terminal for a short layover under 4 hours?
No. Government advisories prohibit independent exits regardless of duration due to POM’s crime patterns. Use airside lounges instead—Air Niugini operates facilities for transit passengers, and some credit cards provide lounge access through Priority Pass.
Are Airways and Gateway Hotels officially recognized as secure options?
Yes. Both hotels operate airport-exclusive shuttle services referenced in government travel guidance. However, you must pre-book transfers minimum 48 hours ahead—neither hotel guarantees walk-up shuttle availability, especially during peak travel periods.
What if I’m connecting from a domestic PNG flight to an international departure?
Domestic-to-international connections require landside customs clearance, exposing you to external areas. Arrange hotel shuttle pickup immediately after clearing immigration rather than waiting in unsecured terminal zones. Allow extra time for this transfer in your connection planning.
Is it safe to use regular taxis from POM airport?
No. Government advisories specifically warn against unverified taxis. Use only hotel-operated secure shuttles or airline-arranged transport. Regular taxi services lack the security protocols and driver vetting that hotel shuttles provide.
Should US or European travelers follow Australian advisories?
US State Department and UK FCDO advisories mirror Australia’s Level 3 assessment for PNG. Cross-reference your home country’s guidance, but Australian Smartraveller typically provides the most detailed POM-specific protocols given geographic proximity and traveler volume.
Can I rebook my routing to avoid POM entirely?
Often yes. For many Asia-Pacific itineraries, alternative hubs like Singapore, Brisbane, or Cairns offer comparable connections without Level 3 advisory concerns. Check fare differences—sometimes avoiding POM adds minimal cost while significantly reducing risk exposure.
