Plane crash in Papua New Guinea
Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade
3 September 2010
Australian officials continue to be closely involved in efforts to assist the families who lost loved ones in the tragic air crash on Misima Island on Tuesday 31 August.
The PNG Coroner this morning authorised the repatriation of the remains of the three Australians and one New Zealand citizen killed in the crash to Australia for post mortem processes.
The Australian High Commission in Port Moresby is working closely with international medical evacuation provider, International SOS, to repatriate the remains to Australia at the earliest opportunity.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra is in contact with relevant Commonwealth and State agencies to facilitate repatriation of the remains.
A team of three Australian Transport Safety Bureau air crash investigators arrived on Misima Island this morning Friday 3 September to assist the PNG Accident Investigation Commission with its investigation into the cause of the crash.
Consular officers in Canberra and in PNG are keeping the families of the deceased informed of developments.
Australia thanks the Papua New Guinea Government and people, including the people of Misima Island, for their assistance during this difficult time.
Media inquiries
- Minister's Office: (02) 6277 7500
- Departmental Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555