An aircraft operated by Adventist Aviation Services (AAS) safely completed a landing at Kanabea Airstrip in Papua New Guinea on January 9, after challenging conditions caused the plane to skid off the runway during landing. All occupants were unharmed.
The aircraft was landing at about 8:45am after completing a flight supporting the Gulf Provincial Government Department of Health. The flight was transporting the body of a senior nursing officer, accompanied by family members. Wet conditions at the airstrip caused it to veer off the runway and come to rest in low vegetation near the edge of the strip. There were six people on board, including AAS personnel—a pilot and a dispatch supervisor.
Mission aviation plays a critical role in Papua New Guinea, where rugged terrain and limited road access mean many communities rely on air transport for healthcare, education and essential services. Based in Goroka, AAS supports work across the country, serving remote locations that are inaccessible by road.
“Air transport is our only connection to essential services,” a local representative said. “We are appealing for greater support in maintaining airstrips and infrastructure so communities like ours can be served safely and consistently.”
Following the incident, AAS leadership expressed gratitude for the safe outcome and called for prayer and support for aviation personnel working in demanding environments.
The aircraft remains at Kanabea while AAS works through recovery arrangements. Papua New Guinea Union Mission president Pastor Danny Philip urged church members to pray as the team plans the aircraft’s return.
“I appeal to you all to inform all our churches, pastors and leaders to offer a special prayer for AAS during this time as they work out strategies to repatriate the aircraft,” Pastor Philip said. “Let us thank God and pray for the AAS team in this critical moment.”
AAS chief executive officer Mark Neah also appealed for support. “We need your prayers and support at this time,” he wrote.
