AIR NIUGINI CEO ANNOUNCES SAFE RETURN OF AIRCRAFT FOLLOWING ENGINE SHUTDOWN

May 26, 2023

Air Niugini announced the safe return of one of its aircraft following an engine shutdown during a flight this morning, from Port Moresby to Goroka. The prompt and professional response of the airline crew, in accordance with established protocols, ensured the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew on board.

This morning, a De Havilland Dash 8-300 aircraft, operating flight PX160 from Port Moresby to Goroka, experienced a technical issue with the Left-Hand engine, having just departed Jacksons Airport, Port Moresby. The flight crew immediately initiated the appropriate actions as per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). They performed an engine shutdown and having sufficiently reduced the landing weight by burning fuel in a holding pattern, safely returned the aircraft to Jacksons.

Passenger safety and well-being are our top priorities at Air Niugini, and we would like to reassure our valued customers that all necessary precautions were taken to handle this situation. Our highly trained and experienced flight crew successfully managed the issue with the engine.

Air Niugini is committed to adhering to the highest industry safety standards, and we have already commenced a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the engine issue, that necessitated the shutdown. We are working closely with the aircraft and engine supplier, and relevant authorities to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the engine issue.

Air Niugini’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Gary Seddon said, “I would like to express our sincere gratitude to the crew members of PX160 who handled the situation with utmost professionalism and expertise, as well as our passengers for their understanding and cooperation during this unforeseen event. We are also thankful for the support and guidance provided by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority and other relevant organizations.”

Air Niugini remains dedicated to maintaining the highest level of safety and operational excellence across our fleet. We have robust safety management systems in place and will continue to prioritize the training and well-being of our crew members. Our passengers can continue to have confidence in Air Niugini as we uphold our commitment to delivering safe and reliable air travel.

About Air Niugini:

Air Niugini is the national airline of Papua New Guinea, operating domestic and international services in the Pacific region. With a history spanning over five decades, the airline is committed to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable air travel to its passengers.

Corporate Communications Department

Friday 26 May, 2023.