Australia commits to strengthen PNG aviation safety

The Chief Executive Officer of PNG Air Services Limited, Captain Ted Pakii, and the Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Deborah Stokes, announced a major Australian commitment to improve aviation safety in PNG, at the PNG Air Services Limited–Airservices Australia board dinner last night.

Australia will support installation of the Global Navigational Satellite System (GNSS) at 31 airports and airstrips across PNG at a total estimated cost of K8.1 million. Ms Stokes was pleased to be able to announce support for the new technology which will dramatically improve the aviation safety environment in PNG.

“This leading technology will harmonise Papua New Guinea’s aviation navigation with global trends toward satellite based technology. Improved accuracy and reliability of the technology will reduce risks and improve the ability of the aviation sector to connect businesses and passengers.”
Ms Stokes also stressed the impact that this support would have on PNG’s international profile.

“Improved aviation safety will support PNG’s hosting of high profile international events. I am delighted to be able to make this commitment to enhance Australia’s long standing partnership with PNG to improve air safety.”

Captain Pakii highlighted how vital this project is for PNG.

“GNSS is a critical cog in PNG’s aviation modernisation programme. The new navigation technology will bolster aviation safety and reduce the risk of incidents in our airspace. The PNG aviation industry has welcomed the introduction of GNSS at PNG airports and airstrips as a major advance in PNG’s efforts to improve compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation standards.”

In addition to improving aviation safety, GNSS will reduce the ongoing maintenance costs associated with PNG’s current land based navigational aids and create savings for the aviation industry by reducing fuel costs associated with aircraft holding patterns and diversions due to bad weather.
 

The GNSS project will be managed by PNGASL with support from the PNG-Australia Transport Sector Support Program and Airservices Australia. It will be delivered by the private sector through an international tender process. The project is expected to be completed within the next 12-18 months.