The measure states that the administration of the airport terminal and facilities in Airai and the development of future airports in other areas of the Republic will be facilitated and improved by the creation of a unified Palau Airports Authority. The creation of such an authority will strengthen the oversight of Palau’s existing and future airports, improve planning, allow for more effective performance monitoring, and result in a more streamlined, better focused and more efficient air transport system in the Republic.
Additionally, by creating a Palau Airport Authority, Palau will finally come into conformance with examples of best airport management practices in the countries and territories of the region such as Guam and CNMI airport authorities.The envisioned airport authority shall have all the powers, duties and responsibilities inherent in having a successful and sustainable airport management operation. All powers of the authority shall be exercised by the board of directors, composed of five members to be appointed by the President subject to advice and consent of the Senate.The board will appoint an Executive Director to oversee the day to day management of the authority. The Executive Director shall appoint, with approval of the board, a Chief Financial officer to ensure proper financial management practices of the board and an Attorney to provide sound legal advice to the board.Delegate Isechal says, ‘the time has come for Palau, as an independent nation, to move forward on this issue and establish a airport authority that is reasonably independent from government and political influences so it can provide for a more effective management of our airports.’House Bill 8-46-3, introduced by delegates J. Isechal, H. Rafael, R. Kesolei, T. Rengulbai, C. Yangilmau, L. Basilius, W. Andrew, S. Ongidobel and M. Madrangchar, is assigned to the Committee on Commerce and Trade chaired by Delegate Swenny Ongidobel of Ngeremlengui State.
