MAF in Papua New Guinea on 2 June 2025 marked a significant milestone with the arrival of a brand-new aircraft, P2-AFD, generously donated by the Postcode People from the Isle of Man, which is part of the British Isles. This new addition to the fleet represents more than just a piece of equipment—it is a lifeline to remote and isolated communities across PNG.
After a 5-hour and 15-minute ferry flight from Cairns, Australia, the aircraft, piloted by Volkher Jacobsen, touched down safely at Kagamuga Aerodrome. As it taxied to the MAF hangar, it was honoured with a ceremonial water salute by airport’s firefighters, marking its first touch-down on PNG soil.
Following the arrival and completion of necessary procedures by custom and quarantine and immigration officers, MAF staff and guests gathered around the aircraft in a moment of prayer, dedicating it to God’s service and asking for protection over all who will fly in it, maintain it, and be impacted by its mission.
This aircraft is not just a machine—it is a vessel of care, connection, and transformation.
P2-AFD extends MAF PNG’s operational capacity, joining an existing fleet of nine Cessna Caravan aircraft and one amphibious C208. Together, these aircraft play a crucial role in reaching more than two hundred isolated airstrips across the country, providing access to healthcare, education, emergency evacuations, and spiritual support.
"Today, we celebrate more than just the arrival of an aircraft," said Dom Sant, Interim Country Director for MAF PNG. "We celebrate a partnership, a shared vision, and a commitment to reaching the unreachable. This aircraft is not just a machine—it is a vessel of care, connection, and transformation."
In Papua New Guinea, where treacherous terrain and limited infrastructure make travel nearly impossible in many regions, P2-AFD will enable quick access to vital services. What would take days on foot—through mountains and across rivers—can now be achieved in minutes. A mother in labour, a child with a fever, a teacher bringing education—all now have a way forward.
Dom Sant continued, "To the Postcode people—your impact is felt. In the tears of relief when a medevac arrives, in the laughter of children going to school, and in the prayers of families who now know they are not alone—thank you."
Special thanks were also extended to MAF teams in the UK, Cairns, and worldwide who collaborated tirelessly to make this aircraft’s delivery possible.
P2-AFD is already flying operational with pilot Markus Bischoff taking off the very next day from Mt Hagen heading out for a 3-day overnight tour to Telefomin, serving the communities in the Min and boarder area west of the Strickland River. It is carrying not only supplies and passengers—but also stories of hope, healing, and the promise of a better tomorrow.
