AIR Niugini staff across its domestic and international network joined fellow citizens in celebrating Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence Anniversary last week, marking the occasion with pride, reflection and unity.
At the airline’s Port Moresby Head Office, celebrations commenced with a flag-raising ceremony, the singing of the National Anthem and the recitation of the National Pledge. Staff proudly turned up in the national colours of red, black and gold, while others adorned in traditional attire representing Papua New Guinea’s four regions also shared the significance of their cultural dress and heritage, highlighting the country’s rich diversity.
Addressing employees, Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alan Milne, reflected on the airline’s special place in the nation’s history, noting that Air Niugini was established two years before the country gained independence and has continued to play a critical role in connecting people, supporting economic growth and nation-building.
Mr Milne also acknowledged another significant milestone, the first anniversary of Air Niugini’s Airbus A220 aircraft, which arrived in Papua New Guinea on the eve of Independence last year as part of the airline’s ongoing fleet transformation programme.
“As Papua New Guinea celebrates 51 years of independence, we are proud of the role Air Niugini continues to play in connecting our people and supporting the nation’s development.
We also celebrate one year of the arrival of People’s Balus, our Airbus A220 operations, a key milestone in our transformation journey and our commitment to delivering a modern, efficient and reliable airline for Papua New Guineans,” Mr Milne said.
Chief People Officer, Ms Andu Rawali, also addressed staff, encouraging the 2,000 plus employees to reflect on their individual and collective contributions to the airline and the nation while embracing opportunities to help shape Air Niugini’s future success.
“As we celebrate our nation’s journey, resilience, and progress, it is also a time for reflection and renewed commitment to building a brighter future for Papua New Guinea. Reflection is powerful, it’s about looking back and looking inward, recognizing our strengths, addressing our weaknesses, and seizing opportunities. As we surpass the 50-year milestone, we carry the responsibility to reset our mindset, renew our actions, and propel this airline forward with pride.”
The celebrations included cultural presentations, an Independence cake-cutting ceremony, a Papua New Guinea-themed photo booth, light refreshments and staff Independence themed competitions open to employees across Air Niugini’s domestic and international ports, with winners to be announced later.
While the main ceremony was held in Port Moresby, Air Niugini staff in outports and international stations also organised their own Independence activities to mark the occasion.
For 53 years, Air Niugini has proudly connected Papua New Guinea and remains committed to supporting the country’s economic and social development while fostering national pride and unity.
Source: Air Niugini