PX aims to boost local tourism

**Passengers on the inaugural Boeing 737 flight greeted by traditional dancers at Gurney Airport, Alotau, last Friday.**

By PETER ESILA
AIR Niugini will be introducing tourist-oriented getaway fares to encourage more domestic travel, says chief executive officer Bruce Alabaster.
Alabaster disclosed this during the inaugural Boeing 737 flight to Gurney Airport in Milne Bay last Friday.
“This is specifically to stimulate the domestic tourism market at a time when the cruise ships are able to come here,” he said.

**Passengers from the Boeing 737 arriving at Gurney Airport in Alotau.**

Retired Emirates airline Captain Timothy Narara said domestic tourism would generate revenue.
“The inaugural flight shows to the rest of the country that the Government has realised the potential of Milne Bay and its need for a larger aircraft to cater for its requirements,” he said.

**Air Niugini first officer Bernice Watinga, from Milne Bay, meeting relatives at the Gurney terminal in Alotau last Friday.**

“Milne Bay is leading the way in tourism in the country and while the Covid-19 has restricted that in some way, the Tourism Bureau is busy in anticipation for the return to normalcy.

**Air Niugini chief executive officer Bruce Alabaster welcomed by traditional dancers at Gurney Airport, Alotau, last Friday.**

“The fact that the B737 was flown in by two pilots of Milne Bay heritage – first officer Bernice Watinga and Capt Moses Padigaga – speaks volumes about the potential we have in producing some great professionals who can contribute to the growth of the nation.”
According to the Tourism Promotion Authority, Milne Bay’s main tourist attraction is its diving facilities.