Two Air Niugini aircraft engineers were among the first six engineers in the country to have received their Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licenses under the revised Civil Aviation Rules(CAR), part 66.
Young Browen Kasito from Sirumpa village in Henganofi, Eastern Highlands received her electrical and instrument licenses, specializing in Fokker 70 and F100 aircraft, while Air Niugini Executive Manager, Maintenance Control Benedict Oraka received his license in power plant and aeroplane, specializing in Boeing 767, B737, Fokker 100/F70 and the Dash 8-100/200/300 aircraft.
The revised CAR Part 66 is adopted from the current New Zealand AME licensing system and now ensures Papua New Guinea Aircraft Maintenance Engineer(AME) licensing meets the international Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) standards.
Air Niugini Board Director, Leslie Hayward who was present for the ceremony at the CASA Head office in Port Moresby last Friday congratulated the engineers for their achievement. He also commended PNG Civil Aviation & Safety Authority(CASA) for continuously increasing self-sufficiency and ensuring higher safety obligations.
He said “It is good to see that CASA PNG continues to increase self-sufficiency, making it easier for engineers to receive their ICAO compliant licenses without having to go out of the country to do that.”
CASA PNG Managing Director, Wilson Sagati said revised part 66 license is fully compliant with ICAO and is recognizable worldwide, unlike the old AME license which was only recognized with PNG.
“CASA is mandated to set sound and appropriate rules and policies. It has taken us several months to establish and implement this revised license and we have been vigorously working to ensure an appropriate and more modern and effective technical training is provided and those who complete the training receive the best practical and exposure,” Sagati said.
The revised license features the insertion of the holder’s photograph and a new group and type ratings which is in accordance with the newly amended Rule Part 66-AME licensing.
One of the recipients, Mr Oraka commended CASA PNG for the implementation of the revised AME license. He said the amendments in the revised CAR part 66 has been assessed to be the best way forward for Papua New Guinea.
“The changes that CASA have put in place is impressive and makes it a leading authority in terms of safety and regulation.”
An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is responsible for the release or certification of an aircraft after maintenance, inspection, repair or modification. It is a highly responsible occupation that requires a high degree of responsibility and skill.
Apart from the revised AME under Civil Aviation Rules, part 66, CASA PNG also opened an e-exam centre in February this year. It now offers technical license examination modules, making it convenient for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers in the country.