In a milestone achievement for landowner companies in Ok Tedi, Western province, three new Dash 8 Aircrafts were just recently bought to serve as charter aircrafts for Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi).

The Ok Tedi Landowners Royalty Investment Trust (OTLRIT) and the Milum Group of Companies were congratulated by Ok Tedi on the launch of Milum Aviation Limited and the

successful acquisition of three Dash 8 aircrafts that currently operate Ok Tedi’s charter service.

Ok Tedi Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Kedi Ilimbit, said: “This is a proud moment for our landowners.” “The acquisition marks a significant milestone in our journey to empower landowner companies to become profitable and sustainable enterprises.” “This investment is part of our broader vision to support landowner companies in securing Tier 1 contracts,” Mr. Ilimbit added.

“We want to see our landowners involved in major business areas such as mining fleet leasing, warehousing, aircraft charter, drilling, and even contract mining in the future.” The Dash 8 aircrafts will continue to be leased to Ok Tedi to support its fly in fly out charter service, which transports workers to and from operational sites.

To commemorate this achievement, the three Dash 8 aircrafts will also be renamed in honour of prominent people who played a vital role in realizing the creation of Milum Aviation.

• Ilimbit Dream – named after Kedi Ilimbit, Ok Tedi Managing Director and CEO

• Asekim Pride – named after Henry Asekim, Chairman OTLRIT

• DeSouza Spirit – named after Aubrey DeSouza, CEO Milum Group of Companies

The OTLRIT, which represents the 12 Mine Villages, acquired the aircrafts at a cost of approximately $10.1 million from a Singapore-based company who had owned the aircrafts for the last 35 years. They are now 100% owned by OTLRIT and will operate under the banner Milum Aviation.

In addition to the Dash 8 aircrafts, OTLRIT and Milum have also acquired two Q400 Series Dash 8 aircrafts from Qantas, Australia. These will be added to their fleet this month. One aircraft will service domestic routes, while the other will operate international flights to Cairns and Brisbane. Aircraft management, servicing, and maintenance will continue to be handled by Pacific Direct Limited.

The three aircrafts, affectionately known as the pride of Tabubil over the last three decades, will soon be rebranded under Milum Aviation.