PUBLIC NOTICE: AVIATION INDUSTRY INQUIRY – RELEASE OF THE FINAL REPORT

The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) wishes to inform key Industry participants, relevant stakeholders and the general public on the release of the Final Report (Final Report) in relation to its inquiry into the Aviation Industry of Papua New Guinea (Inquiry).

The ICCC undertook a transparent, robust and comprehensive review of the Inquiry to arrive at this final outcome. The Final Report is a refinement of ICCC’s preliminary findings and sets out its final determinations after considering and incorporating feedback/and submissions from relevant and key industry stakeholders and the Regional Stakeholder Consultations.

The two (2) key recommendations for implementation outlined in the Final Report are:

1. To bring National Airports Corporation (NAC) and NiuSky Pacific Limited (NSPL) under independent economic regulation of their prices and service quality in the interest of the public; and

2. To establish a high-level Airport Investment Steering Committee/Group to coordinate major airport investment decisions.

The Final Report also outlines a number of key reforms to enable these priorities and strengthen overall sector performance.

The ICCC considers that there would be significant benefits emerging from the recommendations in terms of more accountability, service efficiency and transparency in the aviation service provision in PNG. Overtime, airlines should face more predictable and efficient aeronautical charges, enabling better planning and more sustainable operations. Consumers should also gain clearer information, more consistent services and a stronger consumer protection oversight.

Overall, these reforms would support a safer, fairer and more efficient aviation sector that continues to underpin PNG’s growth, social cohesion and national unity.

Copies of the Final Report can be obtained from the ICCC’s website at www.iccc.gov.pg.

Any queries on the same can be directed to Mrs. Stella Mirisa Kora on telephone 312 4600 or via email on skora@iccc.gov.pg.