Missionary Aviation Fellowship (MAF) has played a critical role in supporting Papua New Guinea’s rural economy and national development through its aviation services over the past 75 years, according to Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi.
Speaking during MAF’s 75th anniversary thanksgiving service in Mount Hagen, Western Highlands Province, on 7 May 2026, Minister Goi described MAF as “a lifeline to the most remote and isolated communities across our country.” He said that, in a nation defined by rugged terrain and limited road infrastructure, the organisation had “consistently bridged the gap, bringing hope, connection, and opportunity where it is needed most.”
The Minister said MAF’s services extended beyond aviation operations, highlighting its role in transporting medical supplies, assisting vulnerable patients, supporting education services, and delivering essential goods to rural communities.
“Your contributions in airlifting medical supplies, transporting the sick and vulnerable, supporting education services, and enabling the delivery of essential goods have transformed countless lives,” he said.
Minister Goi also highlighted the organisation’s contribution to rural economic participation, saying MAF had helped connect farmers and small businesses to markets, allowing communities to engage more meaningfully in national development.
“MAF’s role in connecting rural farmers and small businesses to markets has also strengthened local economies, empowering communities to participate meaningfully in national development,” he said. “This is not merely aviation; it is nation-building at its most practical and compassionate level.”
He acknowledged MAF as a strategic partner in supporting the mandates of the Rural Airstrips Agency (RAA), saying its continued operations complemented government efforts to maintain and expand rural airstrip infrastructure across the country.
“As Minister for Civil Aviation, I also acknowledge MAF as a key strategic partner in advancing the mandates of the Rural Airstrips Agency,” he said. “Your continued operations complement government efforts to maintain and expand rural airstrip infrastructure, ensuring that no community is left behind.”
Minister Goi also recognised MAF’s long-standing support for churches and Christian missions in Papua New Guinea, saying the organisation had contributed significantly to strengthening faith, hope and unity in remote communities.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working alongside MAF to improve aviation services and expand access to rural populations.
“May the next 75 years of MAF’s service be even more impactful, as together we build a more connected, inclusive and prosperous Papua New Guinea,” he said.
