Adventist Aviation Services (AAS) marked a significant milestone on October 30, 2024, as it celebrated its 60th anniversary of serving Papua New Guinea (PNG). The event was held at the AAS hangar and featured a range of activities that brought together students, aviation workers, families, and friends.

Attendees learned more about the company’s operations, including insights from the maintenance, engineering, pilot, and dispatch teams. A highlight of the day was a raffle that allowed eight children to experience a flight over Goroka town and its surroundings.

The anniversary dinner in the evening gathered families, church leaders, and other key stakeholders, providing a reflective atmosphere to celebrate AAS’s achievements over the past six decades. Leonard Sumatau, secretary of the Papua New Guinea Union Mission (PNGUM), congratulated AAS during the evening's festivities. He shared the union’s vision for 2021-2025 and encouraged the company to expand its operations, stating, “AAS has a vision. We want you to grow in those areas. Let us be leaders in the space we are in. Depend on God, and He will take you there.”

Dr. Ken Boone, chairman of the AAS board, recognized the dedication of workers who have contributed to the company over the years. He acknowledged the challenges posed by COVID-19 but expressed gratitude for the resilience shown by many employees who continued their responsibilities. “AAS has done tremendously in moving people,” Dr. Boone remarked.

Mark Neah, CEO of AAS, took a moment to thank staff, families, aviation partners, and the church for their support in celebrating the airline’s 60th year of operation in PNG. He urged staff to persist in their service, stating, “Let’s take up the challenge and keep moving forward. AAS has faced challenges and was on the brink of sending operations. We had external challenges such as fuel and buying parts from overseas due to the foreign exchange rates. We will be able to come out stronger next year and the years after that.”

Founded on June 30, 1964, AAS started operations in Papua New Guinea with the acquisition of a Cessna 180, which was purchased in America, shipped to Sydney, Australia, and flown to PNG. The company supports the Adventist Church in addressing the needs of the people of PNG by providing emergency medical services, health and education assistance, and commercial charters, among other vital services.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record.