The skies above Ela Beach came alive this morning in a spectacular air show celebrating Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary, showcasing the nation’s growing military capabilities and international partnerships. The event featured aerial displays by the PNGDF Air Transport Wing, Air Niugini, and partner air forces from Australia, New Zealand, France, India, and Tonga. Thousands of spectators, along with international partners, joined in the celebrations, which highlighted modern air power and shared Pacific pride. Emphasizing the collective efforts of partnerships, particularly with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) since 2020, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col) Nancy Wii, Director of Air Preparations for the PNGDF, reflected on the milestone moment. “We have revived our air capabilities in partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force since 2020, and today we showcase what our team has achieved. The air show today is a collective effort by our partners who are here to celebrate our 50th anniversary,” Colonel Wii said. Lt. Col. Wii, who has served in the PNGDF for 20 years, highlighted the growth of the air wing, noting the introduction of three PAC 750 aircraft and the Flight Specialist Program, which has trained pilots, loadmasters, and movement personnel. “These aircraft form the foundation for the future Air Force of PNG,” she added. A strong focus of Lt. Col. Wii’s address was the participation of women in the Defense Force. “So far, there are about 200 females across our three services, with 15 serving in areas of aircraft engineering, movement, personnel, and support. I am currently the only female pilot, and we would like to see more women join the ranks.” She urged young girls to pursue careers in aviation and defense, drawing inspiration from her own journey by growing up in a village in Jiwaka Province, earning her pilot’s license in New Zealand, and rising to leadership within the PNGDF. The event also marked the first public demonstration of PNGDF’s parachute dropping capability, with aircraft specially equipped for in-flight open-door operations. Colonel Wii noted that the Air Wing is also building capacity for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Looking ahead, she revealed plans to recruit more female pilots, encouraging young women to see the PNGDF as an equal-opportunity employer. “Nothing is impossible for women. I hope to have 10 more females in aviation before I retire,” she said. Supported by international partners, the Ela Beach Air Show combined thrilling aerial displays with a powerful message that Papua New Guinea’s Defense Force is modern, capable, and open to all regardless of gender.