Solomon Airlines has confirmed its intention to commence operating the Honiara to Port Moresby route in July 2010, subject to Government approvals and its application to PNG Civil Aviation Authority for a Foreign Air Operators Certificate (FAOC).

A spokesman for Solomon Airlines said "the new service will be operated by a leased Airlines PNG (APNG) Dash8 aircraft, with Solomon Airlines cabin crew and pilots trained in PNG operating under APNG standards and certification approvals."

The Governments of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands wish the two National Carriers (Solomon Airlines and Air Niugini) to work more closely together as part of the push to consolidate the affairs of the MSG (Melanesian Spearhead Group).  The resumption of airline services from Solomon Islands to PNG is part of this collaboration and ensures better and fuller cooperation and services will hopefully expand the market base and grow the market to the benefit of both airlines.

'The Dash8 in service has a fully integrated IFE (In-flight Entertainment system) and our clients will be able to relax and enjoy movies. In addition, this service will be a “full service flight”, the spokesman continued.

Mid week services will provide excellent connections to Japan and Manila and the airline is in discussions with Air Niugini on how best to promote this new connection.

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