Airline to continue flights

By NATHAN WOTI
AIR Niugini will continue to operate flights as planned based on the supply of jet fuel which Puma Energy is compelled to provide under the fuel supply agreement and court orders, an official says.
Chief executive Gary Seddon told The National that Air Niugini had been dealing with an inconsistent supplies of fuel since 2021.
“During 2023, Puma issued notifications to restrict fuel supplies on four separate occasions,” he said.
“When Puma issued fuel restriction notices in January 2024, Air Niugini immediately took legal action.”
Seddon said the airline was continuing to operate its sc hedule.
“Air Niugini will continue to take all steps within its control to deliver the planned domestic and international schedule safely and competently. We will communicate any changes to this position.”
He added that Air Niugini was working with its board and shareholders to progress options to build confidence in future fuel stocks.
“We are aware of the current stock levels and Puma’s inability to maintain adequate stock in the country to meet all carrier and operator requirements,” Seddon said.
When asked if a change in the jet fuel supplier would impact the airline’s operation he said: “we are focused on the continuity of the current supply for the moment. However, we also know that Mobil currently does not supply jet fuel”. Seddon said he had been monitoring the position closely since he took over as CEO.
Meanwhile, PNG Air advised its customers that the stop fuel supply notice by Puma Energy had impacted its operations.
PNG Air stated that its flight operations were restricted to charter contracts to Simberi and Lihir, plus some regular public transport.