Adventist aviation service gets Aust support

The Australian Government and the Adventist Aviation Service [AAS] launched a new partnership in Lae on Wednesday to deliver life-saving health services to remote parts of the country.

AAS chief executive officer Captain Mark Neah said the funding [not disclosed] from Australia would keep their aircraft flying to the most isolated communities.

"Australia's support will help us keep our planes in the air to reach the most remote communities that rely on our services," Capt Neah said. "This will be the start of a long-term community-building partnership effort between AAS and the Australian Government."

Despite ongoing challenges in the aviation sector, including high fuel costs and difficult operating conditions, AAS continues to reach rural areas where government services are hard to access.

Australian High Commission counselor for subnational humanitarian and accountability, Craig Gillies, said the support for the church-run initiative was well deserved.

Gillies said Australia would continue to back the aviation service under the Australia-Papua New Guinea Partnership program.

"In this partnership, we want to keep giving what you need so you can continue with the good work you are doing for the rural communities," he said.

Community Development, Youth and Religion Minister Jason Peter commended the work of churches in filling government service delivery gaps.

"Where the government doesn't reach, churches are always present to serve the people," Peter said. "We appreciate the work that the church is doing and we will continue supporting this program."

AAS is based in Goroka, Eastern Highlands, and has operated in PNG for 60 years, providing critical logistical support to the health, education and agriculture sectors.