PRK's 'Mangi Kutubu' Takes to the Skies in Aviation Milestone
MORO, Southern Highlands Province – A new chapter in Papua New Guinea's aviation and landowner investment history was marked today as PNG Air's newly acquired aircraft, Mangi Kutubu, completed its inaugural flight into Moro, paving the way for a new twice-weekly service set to commence in July.
The modern ATR 42-600 aircraft was acquired by Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK) and will operate under a long-term lease agreement with PNG Air, representing a significant milestone in locally driven investment within the aviation sector.
The new service is expected to greatly improve air connectivity to Southern Highlands Province while addressing long-standing transportation challenges faced by project area landowners from Kutubu, Kikori, Semberigi, and the Homa-Paua region of Hela Province. PNG Air currently operates two weekly services between Port Moresby and Mendi.
PRK Chairman John Kapi Natto described the maiden flight as a proud and emotional moment for the people of Kutubu and its landowning communities.
"For the first time in our nation's history, landowners are acquiring, owning and leasing aircraft to a major airline in the country to operate," Mr Natto said.
He said the acquisition reflects PRK's commitment to expanding and diversifying its investment portfolio beyond the oil and gas sector.
"This aircraft acquisition marks a significant chapter in the diversification of our investment portfolio and asset base. It demonstrates that PRK is growing and sustaining wealth creation beyond our resource projects for our landowners and future generations," he said.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), Augustine Mano, welcomed the milestone and commended PRK for entering the aviation industry.
"This acquisition is a demonstration and a statement of the strong capability of PRK. It redefines how PRK and other subsidiaries within the MRDC Group are positioned as partners in the economic development of Papua New Guinea through the provision of air transport," Mr Mano said.
He described the investment as an economic enabler that highlights sustainable wealth creation beyond the lifespan of resource extraction projects.
"PRK is a testament to sustainable wealth creation beyond the life of oil and gas production. It is not only an active participant in commerce but a leader, with substantial holdings in other sectors, including the prestigious Star Mountain Plaza and Bank of South Pacific. This level of growth reflects the strategic foresight and leadership of the Board," Mr Mano said.
Mr Mano also noted that the ATR aircraft is well suited to PNG Air's operating environment, particularly for provincial and regional routes across the country.
The aircraft's maiden landing in Moro was celebrated with a welcome ceremony attended by community leaders, company representatives, and invited guests, marking what Mr Mano described as a landmark achievement for landowners.
He said the MRDC Group continues to invest in key growth sectors, including aviation, hospitality and tourism, as Papua New Guinea advances economically.
"Travel and tourism will grow substantially as the country modernizes and opens up. It is important that landowners maintain a strong footprint in this sector into the future," he said.
Mr Mano commended the PRK Board for its vision and leadership in helping modernize air travel services in Papua New Guinea.
The introduction of the new service is expected to improve accessibility for communities in the project areas while supporting economic activity and development across Southern Highlands, Gulf and Hela provinces.
The inaugural flight signals a historic achievement for resource project landowners, demonstrating how strategic investments can create sustainable opportunities and long-term benefits for future generations.
Source: MRDC Media
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