PX to make inaugural flight to Aropa

 Air Niugini will operate an inaugural service to Aropa airport in Kieta on Friday, followed by a first commercial flight next Tuesday.

The airline ceased operations to Kieta in 1989, and after 25-years, it would recommence its service to Aropa.

Air Niugini chief executive  officer Simon Foo (pictured) said since the closure of Aropa airport, people in South Bougainville and the surrounding areas had to travel long distances to get to Buka airport for their travel needs.

“The resumption of Air Niugini services will greatly help the people of Buin, Panguna, Torokina, Wakunai and others who now have easy access for their air travel needs as they do not have to travel all the way to Buka to get on an aircraft.” 

Foo appealed to the people of Bougainville to look after the facilities in place at the airport and to support the flights to both Buka and Kieta.

He said “Air Niugini fully supported the National Government’s initiative to restore and expand services to Aropa.”

Air Niugini’s initial services into Kieta will be every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. 

All services will be operated by Air Niugini’s Q400 aircraft. 

To reach Buka by road, it costs K70 from Kieta, K60 from Arawa and K120 from Buin.