The King marks 80th anniversary of Mission Aviation Fellowship and celebrates 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence
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The King has visited the humanitarian air operator, Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), to celebrate their 80th anniversary. Whilst visiting the charity, His Majesty unveiled their new aircraft that will deliver aid to remote regions in Papua New Guinea and had the opportunity to meet members of the PNG community in celebration of their 50th anniversary of independence.
Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), believed to be the world’s largest humanitarian air operator, was founded at the end of the Second World War by a group of RAF officers. They wished to use the flight skills they had acquired in wartime to build a world in peace.
Today, MAF flies to 14,000 remote destinations to deliver support to isolated communities including access to medicine, technology and education.
Whilst at the hanger, The King had the opportunity to meet staff, volunteers and guests of MAF, including several staff members from Papua New Guinea.
His Majesty also unveiled the new Cessna aeroplane which will deliver aid to remote regions in Papua New Guinea. The plane has been modified to withstand some of the world’s most challenging flying conditions.
Papua New Guinea is now MAF’s busiest programme, and is recognised by the government, international aid agencies and local communities as a vital, safe service and a reliable way to travel. MAF has made a conscious commitment to the long-term development of the country by employing and training around 100 local staff.
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