PNG businessman acquires Cessna Caravan from Tropicair

By Andrew Curran.

A Papua New Guinea businessman has purchased a Cessna 208B Caravan from Tropicair. The aircraft was acquired by Port Moresby-based Eke Lama, following his purchase of a Bell 407 helicopter in 2023.

The 31-year-old Cessna Caravan is currently registered as P2-BEN (msn 208B0424), but Lama is understood to be re-registering it as P2-LAM. Papua New Guinea’s National newspaper reports that he paid PGK4 million (USD880,000) for the aircraft.

It will be managed and operated by Port Moresby-based Helifix Operations Limited, although Lama has registered the business name Lama Aviation in conjunction with announcing the purchase.

"The demand for this service is high, especially in rural areas where access to essential government services is lacking,” he said. “My plan is to use the plane to help people in the remote parts of Central like Goilala, Popondetta, Western and Gulf.”

Lama acquired the 208B through his company, Yumi Yet Real Estate. He purchased the first helicopter from Helifix, and the charter company is now managing and operating both aircraft on his behalf.

Lama says his first helicopter has performed well and enjoyed a steady stream of charter bookings.

Aero South Pacific has contacted Lama Aviation and Helifix Operations for comment.

Photo: Helifix Operations
Contact the writer: andrew@aerosouthpacific.com