EIGHT children across Papua New Guinea are now enjoying a renewed chance at life following successful heart surgeries so far this year, made possible through Air Niugini’s longstanding partnership with the Operation Open Heart Foundation (OOHF).
Most recently, three of the total six children underwent life-changing heart surgeries, three of whom were from Port Moresby, while the other three—two boys and one girl aged between 11 and 13 years—were from Simbu, New Ireland and East New Britain provinces. These three patients were identified through provincial cardiac screening programs supported by Air Niugini and underwent corrective procedures last month during a specialist surgical mission supported by visiting doctors from KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Singapore.
Earlier this year in March, Air Niugini airlifted five children and their guardians from Manus, Lae, Mendi and Alotau to Port Moresby to undergo open-heart surgery. All procedures were successfully completed, and the airline has since flown the patients safely back to their respective home provinces.
Speaking on the partnership, Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alan Milne, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to supporting the program.
“Air Niugini is honoured to play a role in giving these young Papua New Guineans a second chance at life and remains committed to supporting initiatives that deliver real impact to our communities.”
“For more than three decades, Air Niugini has continuously supported the Operation Open Heart program because it changes lives in the most meaningful way. What began as transporting overseas medical teams and tonnes of equipment has evolved into a nationwide effort—flying doctors into provinces for the heart screening program and ensuring children can access life-saving surgery at the Port Moresby General Hospital.” Mr Milne said
Air Niugini has supported the Operation Open Heart program since its inception in 1993, initially transporting medical equipment and Australian surgical teams into Papua New Guinea. Over time, this support has expanded to include complimentary travel for local medical screening teams to visit rural and provincial hospitals, as well as the transportation of patients and their guardians to Port Moresby for critical surgeries.
Through this partnership, specialist teams are now able to reach children in remote areas who would otherwise remain undiagnosed due to geographic and financial barriers. Recent cardiac screenings conducted in Tari (April 20–22, 2026) and Popondetta (May 6–8, 2026) saw a total of 71 children assessed, with 30 cases in Tari and 41 in Popondetta.
Last year, eleven children received lifesaving heart surgeries through the airline’s support.
Operation Open Heart Foundation’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ms Jane Huka, acknowledged the airline’s vital contribution in expanding access to specialist cardiac care.
“Prior to Air Niugini’s partnership, reaching children outside Port Moresby was simply beyond our reach. Only families who could afford airfare could access screening and treatment. Today, that reality has changed dramatically,” Ms Huka said.
“Air Niugini has opened the skies for our most vulnerable children—flying doctors into provinces and ensuring patients can travel for life-saving surgery in Port Moresby. The gratitude from patients and their families is immeasurable. Thank you, Air Niugini, for helping us reach the unreached and restore hope.”
The screening program will continue its nationwide outreach, with upcoming visits scheduled for Alotau (June 24–26, 2026), Banz, Jiwaka (July 13–14, 2026) and Mt Hagen (July 15–16, 2026). Patients in these provinces have already been contacted and are preparing for the clinic days. Other locations scheduled for this year’s screening program are: Madang, Buka, Wewak, Goroka, Rabaul, Mendi and Kundiawa.
With a dedicated screening team led by Dr. Diana Olita’a, Dr. Kunera Kiromat, and Dr. Cornelia Kilalang, and continued logistical support from Air Niugini, the program continues to bridge the gap between remote communities and specialised cardiac care.
Air Niugini remains steadfast in its commitment to national health initiatives—demonstrating that beyond connecting destinations, the airline is helping connect Papua New Guineans to lifesaving medical care, hope, and a healthier future.
Source: Air Niugini