Greater risks facing flag carrier

The National Letters

I HOPE this message is taken seriously by the Government, and especially given special attention by Minister William Duma, for his ministry’s attention and action as required.
I am writing to urgently bring to your attention the critical situation concerning Air Niugini, which poses a serious risk of grounding by both the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of PNG (Casa PNG) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (Icao).
Since Easter Friday, significant developments have unfolded, indicating a looming crisis for Air Niugini.
Casa PNG has stood down several senior executives of Air Niugini, raising concerns about the potential revocation of the airline’s Airline Operating Certificate (AOC) and subsequent grounding.
Casa PNG, representing Icao through IOSA, has demanded corrective actions regarding safety issues, including the rejection of the new organisational structure of Air Niugini.
The replacement of experienced executives and pilots with new personnel has raised doubts about the airline’s compliance with safety requirements.
Air Niugini is currently without a chief executive officer or a leadership team, further exacerbating safety concerns.
An upcoming audit by Icao through IOSA in July threatens to suspend Air Niugini’s license due to the absence of management and unresolved safety issues.
The timeline for identifying and rectifying safety deficiencies before the audit in July appears insufficient, even with the appointment of a new CEO.
Despite discussions of fleet expansion, the focus should be on addressing safety and operational shortcomings before the potential shutdown of the airline.
The failure to renew the AOC could lead to political repercussions and public scrutiny of the government’s handling of the crisis.
Immediate actions are necessary to address the pressing issues faced by Air Niugini:

  • APPOINTMENT of a new CEO with aviation management expertise;
  • ASSIGNMENT of qualified personnel to oversee Quality Assurance; and
  • ELIMINATION of political interference in appointments to ensure competency and effectiveness.

Failure to act swiftly and decisively may result in dire consequences for Air Niugini and the government.
Your urgent attention and intervention in this matter are greatly appreciated.

Reginald Renagi
Strategic Planner/Advisor
Civil Society Advocacy forums
Concerned Citizen