Inau needs funds for heart operation

By CHRISTINE PAKAKOTA
THE family of the first Papua New Guinean to fly solo in a jet aircraft is appealing for financial help in their father’s fight for survival.
Papua New Guinea Accident Investigation Commission chief executive officer David Inau lies today in a hospital bed at the Philippines Health Centre in Makati, Manila.
Inau was admitted into the centre last Wednesday after his doctors at the Pacific International Hospital told him of a possible blockage on his artery.
Family spokesman Daniel Waminuok said Inau was scheduled to fly to Philippines on Oct 16 but put everything on hold to attend to investigations on the Airlines PNG crash on Oct 13.
His passion for flying and aviation in PNG saw him put his appointment on hold so he could ensure that investigations were carried out and all parts of the bodies of crash victims were brought to Port Moresby.
He underwent a triple bypass surgery last Saturday to correct the multiple blockage of the artery.
“He is in ICU and is okay. He is talking and has drunk water.”
Because of the sudden twist of events for the family they are asking for financial help from friends, relatives and the community.
Those wanting information can call Waminuok on 7211 2960 or Naomi Inau on 7213 0136/342 4238 and deposits can be made into the following account: David and Antonia Inau – 11790278 (ANZ Waigani Branch).
Inau flew solo in the jet aircraft in 1979 and was a student of No 72 Flying Instructors Course and graduated on April 29, 1979, from the Central Flying School (CFS) in Australia as the first qualified flying instructor from PNG.
He was the first pilot of the police helicopter Eye in the Sky.