For Immediate Release
Date: 12 December 2024
Due to ongoing supply chain challenges and the necessity of sourcing fuel from overseas, a fuel shortage is currently affecting the Telefomin, Tabubil and Kiunga regions. While a shipment of fuel is en route, delays mean it will not arrive in Kiunga until the first week of January 2025. As a result, adjustments to flight programs in these areas will be necessary until the new fuel delivery has been completed.
The MAF Bookings and Operations Centre are currently reviewing flight programs and contacting affected customers.
Dom Sant, MAF Interim Country Director said “We are cancelling non-essential flying to be able to conserve fuel in the Telefomin, Tabubil and Kiunga areas. This will allow MAF to continue to operate essential flights such as medical evacuations.”
Non-essential flights will either be postponed or cancelled until early 2025.
MAF recognises that these changes will cause disruptions to flight schedules and may prevent some customers from traveling as planned, and deeply regret the inconvenience this will cause.
Mr Sant said “I want to assure our customers that we are taking all possible steps to minimize the impact on affected communities and reestablish fuel supply as soon as possible. However, the logistics of purchasing fuel from abroad has significantly affected our fuel supply.”
We are committed to resolving this issue as swiftly as possible and ensuring that operations return to normal once the delayed shipment arrives. Your patience and understanding during this challenging period are greatly appreciated.
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For more information or media inquiries, please contact: png.communications@mafint.org