Aitape Foundation Limited (AFL) steps up to restore airline services to Aitape.

After a year of non-existent flight services to the Aitape/Lumi and Nuku Districts of Sandaun Province, AFL has taken the initiative to restore services in liaison with airline agencies Dove Air and Missionary Franciscan Aviation (MAF).

Dove Air has already indicated that they will provide services to Vanimo, Aitape and Wewak, however the days have not been confirmed as yet.

Managing Director of AFL, Maran Nateleo said that MAF has also been consulted however, have indicated that there are some technicalities invovled. They mentioned that only if the airstrip was repaired and their requirements met, then they would reconsider. AFL is also looking into the matter and will speak with DCA.

"Diocese of Aitape is very concerned about the lack of services that is greatly affecting the people, and therefore Aitape Foundation Limited is pleased to inform the public that it will be working closely with the airlines mentioned to restore services into Aitape, to enable efficient and fast delivery of mail, light cargo and passenger movement," stressed Mr. Nateleo.

He added that attempts have also been made to contact the office of the Member for Aitape/Lumi and Minister for Finance and Treasury, Patrick Pruaitch, together with the Aitape District Administration requesting financial assistance. This is to enable AFL to prepare the airstrip to an acceptable condition in order to reopen up the air-service to the various areas mentioned.

As a result, there has been no response as yet, however Mr. Nateleo has high expectations that there will be assistance forthcoming from the government where they see that there's a need for these services.

Notices have also been sent out to the general public notifying them that AFL will be carrying out ground maintenance of both the airstrip as well as the terminal for the initial part of the preparation.

People residing near the area are advised to keep clear of the runway, including driving of vehicles, erecting of buildings and throwing of rubbish within the vicinity is prohibited.