PNG airlines grounded in fuel crisis

AIR NIUGINI said at the weekend it had to cancel all domestic flights because it is unable to secure enough fuel to run the aircraft from Puma Energy.
PNG airlines grounded in fuel crisis PNG airlines grounded in fuel crisis PNG airlines grounded in fuel crisis PNG airlines grounded in fuel crisis PNG airlines grounded in fuel crisis

Staff Reporter

International flights remain unaffected.
 
PNG Air has also reportedly suspended domestic flights.
 
"We hope that our customers and partners appreciate, the situation imposed by Puma Energy is beyond the control of Air Niugini. 
 
Air Niugini said it was in discussion with Puma Energy and other relevant stakeholders to urgently address the fuel supply issues and find a swift resolution.
 
Puma Energy meanwhile said rationing the remaining fuel stocks was the only option to extend availability of supplies for emergency services, hospitals and key critical infrastructure.
 
"Our hands are tied," said Puma managing director Hulala Tokome. "While we have temporarily reinstated supplies as a gesture of good faith, necessary actions have not been taken by other parties. We are reaching a point of no return."
 
The Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Rio Fiocco and Lae CCI president John Byrne have also called for all parties to address this issue for the good of the people and the economy.
 
"BSP Financial Group (BSP) is urged to provide a clear pathway forward towards full compliance with the NSC and NEC's directives. Puma Energy is not aware of the basis for the restrictions of its financial services," Tokome said.
 
BSP released a statement on the subject: "Recently, BSP took a decision to cease its relationship with one of its customers. BSP has allowed the customer time to make alternative arrangements before its relationship with BSP is concluded.
 
"The reasons for BSP's decision are known to the BPNG and the Financial Analysis and Supervision Unit and have been communicated to members of government.
 
"Currently, the customer has the capacity to operate its accounts with BSP until its relationship with BSP comes to an end.
 
"As a licenced bank in PNG, BSP has an obligation to strictly comply with all regulatory requirements. The regulatory framework is essential to ensure PNG's financial system is robust nationally, and critically also to ensure PNG is connected to and compliant with the international financial system. BSP has complied with its regulatory and contractual obligations in making its decision."

 

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