AIR NIUGINI’S SECOND BATCH OF PILOT CADETS COMMENCE TRAINING

MEDIA RELEASE

Four young Papua New Guineans, including one female cadet, have embarked on their journey as part of Air Niugini’s second batch of pilot cadets under the airline’s National Pilot Cadet Program. They departed Port Moresby on Saturday, 10th May, to commence their 18-month initial pilot training at Flight Training Adelaide in South Australia.

The cadets—Christopher Morea Saisagu, Salmon Ephraim Hans, Daera Konio Reid, and Eruel Toovey Verave—were selected after successfully passing a rigorous and thorough selection process of candidates with no former flight training or experience. Thousands of applications were received from young men and women across Papua New Guinea. Shortlisted candidates underwent an intensive evaluation, including academic assessments, internal aptitude tests, and interviews conducted by both Flight Training Adelaide and Air Niugini to ensure only the top-performing individuals were chosen.

During a meeting with the cadets and their parents on Friday, Air Niugini’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gary Seddon, emphasized the airline’s significant investment in their training. He stated that by the time the cadets are fully trained, Air Niugini will have invested one million kina in each of them. Mr. Seddon highlighted the expectations of the highly regulated airline industry, focusing on safety and security, and urged the cadets to remain focused and disciplined. He added that Air Niugini expects nothing less than excellence and professionalism from them.

“It may be your lifelong dream to one day work for the national airline. While you have made it this far, it’s the envy of many to be in the seats you occupy today. Therefore, do not take this opportunity lightly. Air Niugini is making this substantial investment to ensure your dreams become a reality. We want you to succeed and return to work with us,” Mr. Seddon remarked.

Air Niugini’s Acting Chief Operating Officer, Captain Samiu Taufa, and Manager of Pilot cadets and Dash 8 Captain Joachim Ortlauf, who were once cadets themselves 33 and 15 years ago, respectively, echoed the CEO’s sentiments. They encouraged the four young individuals to stay disciplined and focused throughout their training.

Captain Taufa, also General Manager of Flight Operations and Check and Training Captain on the Boeing B767, emphasized that being a pilot is a highly rewarding career. He noted that the cadet program is a pathway to realizing that dream and strongly emphasized the importance of discipline and good habits. “Initially, it’s always exciting; however, there will be challenges and temptations along the way. There may be times when you feel alone, but always remember to stay focused and disciplined. If you need support, there are always people here at Air Niugini who will help, guide, and mentor you throughout your training,” Captain Taufa advised.

Captain Ortlauf acknowledged that the entire program is challenging but rewarding. He encouraged the cadets to always seek support from Air Niugini whenever they face challenges and require assistance. “We have gone through the same program; the training is hard but not impossible. It’s now up to you to ensure you work hard and stay focused so that you can succeed and return home to continue with Air Niugini. We will be here to support you all the way,” Captain Ortlauf said 

Upon successful completion of their 18-month training, the cadets will graduate with their Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL) and multi-engine instrument rating. They will then return to Air Niugini to continue their in-flight training as Cadets.

Air Niugini’s cadet pilot program was reintroduced in 2023 by the current CEO after an eight-year hiatus. “There is a global shortage of experienced pilots. Air Niugini is innovating and developing the next generation, future-proofing our long-term requirements,” Mr. Seddon stated.

Another group of pilot cadets with qualifications and some experience are being assembled for the next Air Niugini cadet intake. These are pilot candidates who have previously received their private pilot license and commercial pilot license, but have very limited flight experience.

Since the inception of the cadet pilot training program, Air Niugini has graduated 84 national pilots who now serve in the flight crew of all Air Niugini’s aircraft—from Dash 8s to Q400, Fokker 70, F100, Boeing 737, and the B767—and with major airlines around the world.

End....//

Corporate Communications Department

Monday 12th May 2025

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Air Niugini Welcomes Competition and New International Routes Through Port Moresby

 

Port Moresby, 12 May 2025 — Air Niugini has welcomed the growing international interest in Papua New Guinea’s aviation market, describing the launch of new international routes via Port Moresby as a positive signal of the city’s emergence as a key regional transit hub for Asia and the Pacific.

Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Gary Seddon said the airline is open to collaboration and healthy competition, particularly in light of the recent launch of China Southern Airlines’ service connecting Guangzhou, Port Moresby, and Port Vila.

“The introduction of new international routes is a welcome development for Port Moresby, highlighting its increasing role in regional connectivity and economic integration,” Seddon said.

He acknowledged that while the current Air Services Agreement between PNG and China prevents China Southern Airlines from selling fares solely between Port Moresby and Port Vila, Air Niugini remains open to discussions on a potential code share arrangement.

“I’m in favour of cooperation, not opposed to competition,” Seddon added. “Our codeshare partnerships with Solomon Airlines, Fiji Airways, and Cathay Pacific show that we are committed to working with others to improve air travel in and out of PNG.”

Air Niugini has previously operated services to Hong Kong and other destinations in China through codeshare agreements, and supports initiatives that enhance tourism, trade, and connectivity.

This announcement comes on the heels of strong support from NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, who praised the Marape-Rosso Government’s backing of the China Southern Airlines route as a major achievement for PNG’s aviation and tourism industries.

“The inaugural flight on April 29, 2025, is a proud and strategic moment for Port Moresby,” said Governor Parkop. “It aligns with our vision to transform the capital into a regional tourist and investment hub.”

The service, which follows negotiations dating back to

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Air Niugini Welcomes Competition and New International Routes Through Port Moresby

Port Moresby, 12 May 2025 — Air Niugini has welcomed the growing international interest in Papua New Guinea’s aviation market, describing the launch of new international routes via Port Moresby as a positive signal of the city’s emergence as a key regional transit hub for Asia and the Pacific.

Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Gary Seddon said the airline is open to collaboration and healthy competition, particularly in light of the recent launch of China Southern Airlines’ service connecting Guangzhou, Port Moresby, and Port Vila.

“The introduction of new international routes is a welcome development for Port Moresby, highlighting its increasing role in regional connectivity and economic integration,” Seddon said.

He acknowledged that while the current Air Services Agreement between PNG and China prevents China Southern Airlines from selling fares solely between Port Moresby and Port Vila, Air Niugini remains open to discussions on a potential code share arrangement.

“I’m in favour of cooperation, not opposed to competition,” Seddon added. “Our codeshare partnerships with Solomon Airlines, Fiji Airways, and Cathay Pacific show that we are committed to working with others to improve air travel in and out of PNG.”

Air Niugini has previously operated services to Hong Kong and other destinations in China through codeshare agreements, and supports initiatives that enhance tourism, trade, and connectivity.

This announcement comes on the heels of strong support from NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, who praised the Marape-Rosso Government’s backing of the China Southern Airlines route as a major achievement for PNG’s aviation and tourism industries.

“The inaugural flight on April 29, 2025, is a proud and strategic moment for Port Moresby,” said Governor Parkop. “It aligns with our vision to transform the capital into a regional tourist and investment hub.”

The service, which follows negotiations dating back to

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PORT MORESBY MOVES CLOSER TO BECOMING GATEWAY TO ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

National Capital District Governor Hon. Powes Parkop has welcomed the Marape-Rosso Government’s support for the launch of China Southern Airlines’ new route connecting Guangzhou, Port Moresby, and Port Vila.

The inaugural flight on 29 April 2025 marks a major milestone in positioning Port Moresby as a key regional transit hub linking Asia and the Pacific.

“This is a proud and strategic moment for Port Moresby. It fully aligns with our vision to make Port Moresby a tourist hub and gateway. It also reflects our capital’s growing role in fostering regional connectivity and opens new doors for trade, and investment apart from tourism .”

The flight follows years of negotiations initiated in 2019 between PNG and Vanuatu. A delegation from Vanuatu, including former Prime Minister and current Leader of Government Business Charlot Salwai, visited Port Moresby to celebrate the launch and met with Prime Minister, James Marape and his officials last week.

Governor Parkop commended Prime Minister Marape’s leadership and commitment to formalising Fifth Freedom Rights, which will enable smooth transit for passengers between PNG and Vanuatu. 

These discussions are now progressing with both governments and China Southern Airlines.

Governor Parkop also highlighted the importance of the Framework Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation signed in 2024, which reinforces collaboration between PNG and Vanuatu across multiple sectors. It’s also follows the signing last year of the sister city agreement between Port Moresby and Port Vila. 

“This airline route strengthens our historical ties and economic partnerships and enhance the sister city relationship between Port Moresby and Port Vila ,” Governor Parkop said. “Port Moresby is rising to meet its potential as the true gateway to Asia and the Pacific.”

Governor Parkop also announced that he has already commenced discussions between China Eastern Airlines to also fly to PNG either from Nanjing or Shanghai. He hopes that this connection can be confirmed soon so it can provide more opportunities between PNG and the Pacific and China especially the mega cities of Shanghai, Nanjing and other cities in the East of China. 

#We_Work #We_Inspire #We_celebrate #png50 

NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, LLB, LLM,MP 

#AmazingPortMoresby 

#OnePeopleOneNationOneCountry

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Plans Underway for Direct Flight Between Kagamuga and Jayapura

State Enterprises Minister Hon. William Duma has announced that the Government is working towards establishing a direct international flight route between Kagamuga Airport in Mount Hagen, Western Highlands Province, and Jayapura in Indonesia.

Speaking during the launch of the new Air Niugini sales office at Tininga Dobel, Minister Duma said the proposed route is part of broader efforts to improve connectivity and expand trade and travel opportunities for the people of the Highlands and Papua New Guinea.

“Jayapura offers a large market of affordable electrical goods, household items, and clothing,” Minister Duma said. “Instead of people flying to Australia to buy quality items at high prices, they will soon have the option to travel directly to Jayapura and return—more affordably and conveniently.”

To make the direct route possible, the government is actively seeking funding to extend the Kagamuga runway to accommodate larger aircraft, including the Boeing 737.

Minister Duma made the announcement in response to concerns raised by Western Highlands Provincial Member Hon. Wai Rapa over the incomplete and substandard runway upgrade previously undertaken at Kagamuga.

“We acknowledge the issues with the previous contractor and apologise to our people,” Minister Duma said. “We are now focused on securing funds and ensuring that the next phase of runway works meets the necessary standards to handle larger aircraft and international operations.”

National Airports Corporation (NAC) Manager Mr. Paul Rumints also confirmed that Kagamuga Airport would undergo further upgrades, citing that previous works were not done to standard.

“All future developments—including runway extensions and infrastructure upgrades—will be managed and implemented properly under NAC oversight,” Mr. Rumints assured.

The direct Kagamuga–Jayapura route is expected to significantly boost economic activity, improve access to international markets, and offer highland communities more affordable travel options once completed.

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