3 Feb 2020

PNG PM blames predecessor over Falcon Jet

From , 5:02 am on 3 February 2020

Papua New Guinea's prime minster and his predecessor are at odds over a controversial jet airplane.

James Marape says he is formally handing the Falcon Jet, used over the years by successive governments, to national carrier Air Niugini.

He says his predecessor Peter O'Neill racked up bills of over $US8.6 million (30 million kina) owed to Air Niugini by using it.

But this is disputed by Mr O'Neill who, upon coming to power in 2011, said he would sell the luxury item inherited from the previous government of Michael Somare.

Mr O'Neill says when a good enough offer wasn't forthcoming, the Falcon's ownership was transferred to Air Niugini, while his administration occasionally chartered the jet.

Paul Barker from PNG's Institute of National Affairs has been following the long-running Falcon saga, and spoke with Johnny Blades.

The Falcon Jet.

The Falcon Jet. Photo: Facebook / James Marape