New arrivals for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force

A country not seen too often in the Scramble news items is Papua New Guinea. However on 2 November 2023, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) received two brand new Pacific Aerospace PAC-750XL light transport planes through its donor Australia.

This means a considerable upscale of the transport abilities given that the current fleet consisted of just a single PAC 750XL that was delivered in September 2021. Operator of these aircraft is the Air Transport squadron based at Jackson's International Airport in Port Moresby.

Australia has further committed itself to work closely with the PNGDF on aviation safety, maintenance and sustainment throughout the operational life of the aircraft.

At the time of signing the contract in 2016 with the New Zealand based Pacific Aerospace company it was understood that the order would consist of four aircraft. Whether a fourth aircraft is still planned and when it would be delivered is unknown at the moment.

The PAC-750XL has strong XSTOL characteristics which is ideal for the rugged nature and short (unpaved) landing strips of Papua New Guinea. It is further capable of carrying up to nine passengers or seventeen paratroopers. The cabin can also be outfitted with cargo holds and an additional 1000 lb capacity cargo pod is attachable to the belly of the aircraft.

Credit photo: via postcourier.com.pg