WOLEAI, Yap State — February 10, 2026 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), officially opened and formally turned over the completed Woleai Airport Runway Project to the Yap State Government and the people of Woleai on February 9, 2026.
The Woleai Airport project is a national initiative of the Federated States of Micronesia, funded by the FSM Congress to improve connectivity and essential services for the outer islands. The project is the largest Congress-funded infrastructure investment to date, valued at approximately $6.5 million. President Simina underscored the national importance of the investment, stating that it is “a powerful statement that our outer islands matter, that connectivity matters, and that development must reach every corner of our nation—no matter how remote.”
Addressing traditional leaders, national and state officials, and the Woleai community, President Simina described the occasion as “a proud, historic, and deeply meaningful day for Woleai, for Yap State, and for the Federated States of Micronesia,” emphasizing that the project represents more than infrastructure, but the fulfillment of a long-standing commitment to outer island communities.
For years, residents of Woleai and neighboring islands experienced frequent disruptions due to runway flooding, affecting flights, medical evacuations, and the delivery of essential supplies. President Simina noted that with the completion of the new runway, “that chapter is closed,” restoring “safe, reliable, and dignified air access—a lifeline for the people of Woleai.”
Beyond the runway, the project also includes a newly constructed terminal building that will serve as a shelter during travel disruptions and emergencies, provide office space for local airlines PMA and CIA, and house a Post Office. President Simina further emphasized its importance in strengthening communication, access to services, and connectivity for Woleai and surrounding islands. Following the announcement of the Post Office, President Simina presented the first mail as a gift to the Chief of Falalop Woleai, Mr. Francis Yarofalpiy.
Placing the project within a broader national context, President Simina stressed that air transportation is essential for a geographically dispersed island nation. “As a nation of islands spread across a vast ocean, air transportation is not a luxury—it is a lifeline,” he said, underscoring its critical role in connecting communities to healthcare, education, markets, and emergency response.
The Honorable Francis Itimai, Governor of the State of Yap, underscored the importance of the Woleai Airport, describing it as “it connects families across the islands,” while also “opening doors for education, healthcare, and commerce.” Governor Itimai concluded by emphasizing that the airport “strengthens our unity as one people across Yap State and the Federated States of Micronesia.”
President Simina expressed his sincere appreciation to the FSM Congress for funding the project and paid special tribute to the late Senator Joe Urusemal and former Senator Isaac Figir for their leadership and advocacy. He also acknowledged the Yap State Government, traditional leaders, the people of Woleai, and the late Chief Francisco Mairal for their unity and support throughout the project’s implementation.
The President further recognized the contractor, Shandong Hengyue Municipal Engineering Co., Ltd., noting that the company was the only firm willing to take on the Woleai Airport project, as well as the engineers and project teams, for their professionalism and dedication in successfully delivering the project.
Senator and former President, the Honorable Peter M. Christian, also extended his appreciation to Shandong Hengyue Municipal Engineering Co., Ltd. for its commitment to completing the project, and to the people of Woleai for their cooperation, patience, and support throughout the construction period.
The company’s engagement extends beyond this project, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting infrastructure development in the FSM. The same firm is also serving as the contractor for the Ganir Bridge project, funded by the Asian Development Bank, and has previously partnered on the successful completion of two projects in Pohnpei: The Kammar Bridge in Nett and the Lukop Road in Madolenimw.
Concluding his remarks, President Simina reaffirmed the National Government’s commitment to outer island development and called for continued collaboration to expand similar investments across the FSM. He also proposed to the Yap and Woleai communities that the airport be named Joseph J. Urusemal Airport, in honor of the late leader’s enduring contributions and service to the nation. The announcement was met with enthusiastic cheers, as community members shouted with joy in a strong show of support and appreciation.
Joining the President were Madame First Lady Mrs. Ancelly Simina; the Honorable Peter M. Christian, Member of the 24th FSM Congress; and Secretary Carl D. Apis of the FSM Department of Transportation, Communications, and Infrastructure (TC&I). Also present were the Honorable Francis Itimai, Governor of the State of Yap; Members of the 24th FSM Congress, the Honorable Andy Choor and the Honorable Andrew R. Yatilman; representatives of the Councils of Pilung and Tamol; members of the Yap State Legislature; traditional leaders; and community members.
The ceremony was followed by traditional performances and island songs by the Woleai community, adding a rich cultural dimension to the event.
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