Grade 12 science students from Kokopo Technical Secondary School gained firsthand exposure to aviation engineering during an educational visit to Tokua Airport in Rabaul, where Air Niugini engineers were replacing an engine on a Fokker 70 aircraft.
The visit was organized as part of the school's Science and Technology learning program and gave students an opportunity to observe aircraft maintenance operations and engage with the airline's engineering team.
For many students, it was their first time entering a restricted airport operational area and seeing licensed aircraft maintenance engineers work on a commercial aircraft.
The engine replacement also demonstrated Air Niugini's ability to conduct major maintenance work outside its primary engineering base in Port Moresby. A similar engine replacement was completed in Rabaul earlier this year.
The maintenance team was led by Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Chuck Matane, a former student of Kokopo Technical Secondary School. Matane's family also has a history in aviation engineering, with his uncle, Eddie Matane, among Papua New Guinea's pioneering aircraft maintenance engineers and an early Air Niugini employee.
Matane and his team explained aircraft maintenance procedures to the students and discussed career pathways in aviation engineering.
"As a former student of Kokopo Technical Secondary School, it was both humbling and rewarding to welcome these students and share with them the work we do every day," Matane said.
He encouraged students to consider aviation engineering, saying the profession requires commitment, discipline and a strong foundation in science and mathematics.
Kokopo Technical Secondary School Principal Doreen Lasumon thanked Air Niugini for providing the students with a practical learning experience.
"Experiences like this bring science and technology to life," Lasumon said, adding that seeing Papua New Guineans working in specialized professions helped students better understand the career opportunities available through education.
Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the national carrier remained committed to supporting educational initiatives that encourage young Papua New Guineans to pursue careers in aviation and engineering.
"Providing students with direct exposure to our engineering operations allows them to see firsthand the expertise, professionalism and dedication required to keep our aircraft operating safely and reliably every day," Milne said.
The visit concluded with a guided tour of the maintenance area, aircraft cabin and flight deck. Students also had further opportunities to interact with engineers and learn about the standards and procedures underpinning airline safety and reliability.
The airline said the experience provided students with an insight into aviation engineering while highlighting the role of specialized technical skills in supporting Papua New Guinea's aviation industry.
