Air Niugini has signed a strategic technical training agreement with Singapore-based Institute of Technical Education Services on 3 February, strengthening workforce capability development as the national airline continues to modernise its operations.
The agreement was signed during the Singapore Airshow, marking a key milestone in Air Niugini’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence, skills development and long-term sustainability.
ITE Education Services, the international business arm of Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education, was established to share the country’s vocational education and training expertise globally. Under the agreement, ITEES will deliver specialised technical training programmes for Air Niugini, drawing on its extensive experience in aviation and technical education. The partnership may also include leadership and workforce planning programmes tailored to the airline’s operational needs.
The agreement was signed by Air Niugini Officer in Charge Capt. Samiu Taufa and ITEES Chief Executive Officer Suresh Natarajan, and witnessed by Air Niugini Board Chairman Karl Yalo, underscoring a shared commitment to collaboration and skills development.
Taufa said the partnership was particularly important as the airline introduces new-generation aircraft into its fleet.
“This collaboration with ITEES represents a significant investment in our people and our future,” he said. “As we introduce new-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A220, it is critical that our technical staff are equipped with the right skills, knowledge and global best practices to support safe, reliable and efficient operations.”
He added that partnerships of this nature are essential to the airline’s long-term sustainability and support its growth and transformation.
Yalo welcomed the agreement, saying it aligns with Air Niugini’s broader strategic direction.
“This partnership reflects the Board’s commitment to strengthening governance, technical capability and leadership across the organisation,” he said. “By investing in high-quality training and development, we are ensuring that Air Niugini remains competitive, resilient and well positioned to meet future challenges in the aviation industry.”
Natarajan said ITEES was pleased to support Air Niugini’s capability development journey.
“We are delighted to partner with Air Niugini and to share Singapore’s vocational and technical training expertise with the airline,” he said.
He also acknowledged Airbus for facilitating the partnership, which has enabled ITEES to extend its training and development programmes to support Air Niugini’s technical requirements.
