By Hope Imaka – EMTV Online
The aviation industry is always looking for ways to better improve, keeping air travel safe.
In light of PNG’s increase in air traffic, Australia has now funded a new state-of-the-art air traffic control simulator for PNG Air Services, valued at K13 million. The simulator is part of a joint PNG-Australia funded initiative to modernize PNG Air Services.
The simulator has programmed into it, realistic interactive experiences to both Jacksons and Nadzab Airbases. Tokua, Kagamuga, Madang and Goroka, will be further programmed into the system in due course.
With the air traffic in PNG airspace bound to increase with the LNG project, international sporting events and APEC, PNG air traffic controllers will now be better prepared to manage various operating scenarios.
As is required for optimum results, the simulator is programmed customarily to PNG’s operating environment. As well as the standard training syllabus, the new facility will allow PNG Air Services to develop practical scenario based training programs based on real scenarios.
CEO of PNG Air Services Limited, Captain Ted Pakii, is proud of the new facility and highlighted the benefits as PNG’s air Traffic gets busier.
“PNG is welcoming more and more international flights, and in the lead up to APEC this is only going to continue. Our team will be better prepared with rigorous training to deliver a safer and more efficient air traffic management service within PNG’s international and domestic airspace”.
The Australian High Commission’s Minister Counsellor, James Hall, highlighted the benefits of the new system.
“This is an exciting time for PNG’s aviation sector, which is moving forward rapidly. The new Mount Hagen International Airport in Western Highlands Province opened in November 2015, and Nadzab Airport in Morobe Province is also scheduled for a major redevelopment. The PNG-Australia partnership to modernize PNG Air Services is a vital complement to these developments to ensure PNG can harness connectivity and trade opportunities”.
