Tonga’s Civil Aviation Office (CAO) and Papua New Guinea’s aviation safety inspectors have launched a high-stakes audit of Lulutai Airlines, just four weeks after the carrier was temporarily grounded for failing to meet critical maintenance requirements.
The audit follows the Public Enterprises Minister’s recent revelation that the airline has yet to overcome significant financial, administrative, and management shortcomings.
The week-long audit, which began with today’s entry meeting at Lulutai’s headquarters, will determine whether the airline retains its vital Air Operating Certificate (AOC) following its recent suspension.
The meeting is held to inform stakeholders of the process before meetings and site visits are made.
An exit meeting will be done upon completion of this audit.
Their findings will be reported to the Director of Civil Aviation on the audited party’s compliance with recommendations.
This is a standard procedure to ensure operating air transportation is done in a safe manner.
Senior Safety Officer James Panuve led CAO’s team at this morning’s meeting with Sela Finefeuiaki Vea, ‘Ilaisaane Malani and Tevita Ma’asi.
Tonga’s Civil Aviation Office under the Ministry of Infrastructure is committed to providing safety oversight for the public traveling by air.
With Tonga’s tourism sector still recovering from [relevant event if applicable], the audit’s outcome carries significant economic implications.
The Ministry of Infrastructure emphasised that “safety remains non-negotiable” while acknowledging Lulutai’s essential role in domestic connectivity.
