First Base Visit as D’GOM!

Two weeks ago I conducted my first “official” base visit as the “Acting Deputy Ground Operations Manager” (D’GOM). I accepted the role back at the end of January but then promptly had the first week of February off sick with a head-cold. It feels great to be starting to get to grips with this new/old job! This role contains some of the responsibility I had when I was Ground Ops Manager (GOM), when I first came to PNG. This responsibility has been delegated to me by the current GOM, David Pank, who I am trying to support as it has not been possible to hire a full-time deputy for him yet, for a variety of reasons.

Ryan flew me to Kiunga so I could meet with the 2 Traffic Officers who work there, find out their current struggles, and look into some issues at the Kiunga airport.

Lakis putting cargo bookings into Wingman.

Luke and one of the guards putting seats back into the plane after offloading cargo.

Luke checking bookings in Wingman.

A “Daru Frog” hopped out to say hello. I was told hundreds of them live in the surrounding swamps.

Ryan flying over the very wet swap of Western Province before landing at Kiunga.

View out of the aircraft window.