SPC and ASPA fly to new heights with MOU

SPC and ASPA fly to new heights with MOU

Friday 1 June 2012, Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC)
headquarters, Noumea, New Caledonia -

The Association of South Pacific Airlines (ASPA) and SPC signed a
memorandum of understanding (MOU) in May to enhance collaborative
efforts contributing to safe, secure, reliable and affordable aviation
transport services across the Pacific Islands.

Building on common goals and interests, the MOU formalises the already
strong ties of partnership, cooperation and collaboration between SPC
and ASPA. Established in June 1978, ASPA is the peak airline association
in the South Pacific. Representing the interests of 16 member airlines,
together with 24 service provider members, ASPA is uniquely placed to
advise and advocate on a wide range of issues affecting aviation in the
South Pacific.

Combined with SPC's well-developed networks throughout its 22 Pacific
Island member countries and territories, this MOU represents a
significant opportunity to maximise positive aviation outcomes for ASPA
and SPC members and, more broadly, the region.

One of the immediate areas the partnership will address is the
development of a magazine focusing on aviation issues in the South
Pacific. Produced by SPC in consultation with ASPA, this initiative aims
to revive ASPA's former South Pacific Aviation Magazine. A new design
and name are currently under development for the first issue, to be
released in June 2012.

SPC Director-General Dr Jimmie Rodgers said, 'SPC welcomes this
formalised partnership and in particular the opportunity to further
strengthen the regional aviation framework in the South Pacific'. He
added, 'This follows a similar agreement between SPC and the Pacific
Aviation Safety Organisation last year, emphasising SPC's 'many
partners, one team' approach.'

ASPA Secretary-General George Faktaufon welcomed the signing, saying
'This agreement is an exciting development for ASPA, the first of its
kind for our organisation; we are looking forward to working with SPC to
pursue common goals in aviation.'

The MOU took effect on 29 May and will have duration of four years.

ENDS

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