Air Niugini eyes expansion to Melanesian Spearshead Group nations

AIR Niugini Limited is looking at expanding its services to the Pacific, especially to the member countries of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) in 2015.

This was revealed by Air Niugini’s chairman Sir Frederick Reiher while presenting a cheque for K100,000 as the airline’s sponsorship towards the staging of the 2nd Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade and Investment Road-show and Fair.

To witness the presentation was Minister for Trade Commerce and Industry, Richard Maru, Air Niugini’s chief executive officer, Simon Foo, and board director, Ian Tarutia. Sir Federick told Mr Maru that staging of the event is very timely as it comes at a time when the company is expanding its services and reach.

"We are looking forward to the delivery of a Fokker 70 aircraft in the new year which will help Air Niugini to initially expand its services to Fiji, Vanuatu and other Melanesian countries in the future," he said.

Sir Frederick, on behalf of the national Government, the owner of Air Niugini, and the board and management, said he was delighted to confirm their strong support towards this initiative. "I understand the event will be staged in Port Moresby on November 28 and 29 and is considered a major initiative to promote PNG businesses and to facilitate trade and investment between MSG member countries.

"Air Niugini is proud to be associated with this event and to be making this contribution," he said.

Mr Maru in receiving the sponsorship commended the company on behalf of the Government. He said the support is indicative of the airlines strong and continued interest in the MSG region.

"I know Air Niugini is currently operating in the Solomon Islands and Fiji, your contribution to this event will greatly help your plans in expanding to other MSG member countries," he said.