180.Sopu (AYQO)

Some serious mountain flying today everyone. We're going to a small village only labelled as Sopu. There isn't much information on these very remote communites. It's situated in the Central Province, somewhat to the north of Port Moresby, the capital city of Papua New Guinea. Given the remote nature of many areas in Papua New Guinea, especially in regions like where Sopu is located, specific information about smaller villages or local details is very limited. Plan for a ridge side campout with some strange looks from the loacals. I highly suggest any aircraft that can do short field takeoffs, landings and something with a good climb rate. Shortest strip is about 800ft.

181.Owena (AYWW)

Owena is a village perched around a steep airstrip nestled in the Eastern Highlands of PNG, inaccessible by road. The community faces the arduous task of trekking for up to a day and a half to reach the nearest road, from where they catch a four-hour minibus ride to Goroka. Educational challenges further compound the situation. With the closure of schools due to COVID-19 and subsequent government measures, teachers left the village for lack of activity.

A pair of Owena's youth successfully underwent training in nursing schools and have returned to their village to serve their community within the clinic. As a result, Owena now boasts a group of medical professionals. However, the village frequently grapples with shortages of both medicines and funds to adequately compensate these healthcare workers. Day 181 will feature some airstrips by community member PhotosbyKev.

182.WABO (AYWB)

Today is an exploration day. Not about distance covered, but places seen. We'll end our flight in Wabo, PNG. Wabo is a rural village located in the heart of Papua New Guinea, celebrated for its serene natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. Nestled amidst lush landscapes, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional way of life, witnessing intricate tribal customs, dances, and crafts. The area is surrounded by striking vistas, including mountain ranges and rivers, offering opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and river exploration. The local markets allow visitors to engage with the vibrant community and acquire authentic handmade souvenirs. Wabo's charm lies in its authenticity and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an immersive cultural adventure and a chance to connect with Papua New Guinea's rich heritage.

183.Yambaitok (AYYZ)

As with many areas in PNG the aerial imagery is hit or miss. The mountainous regions we will fly today are no different. I would recommend MSFS Map Enhancment (Bing Latest) for todays flight. There are also a number of high passes to cross which likely will be a struggle for some of our smaller aircraft, but no impossible. We're headed to Yambaitok, a very remote and difficult area to reach without an airplane. The community is at times very busy and is currently caring for a much wider area than Yambaitok alone. Villagers from other communities often flock to Yambaitok when they hear that health clinic workers are due to fly in. Villagers are often in need of vaccinations, pregnancy care and even tooth extraction. This remote village sits atop a picturesque ridge overlooking the Yuat River. Be careful out here. There is no margin for error. 

184.Oksibil (WAJO)

Although this flight might not be as technically challenging it will require focus. With very frequent altitude changes and often rapidly changing weather conditions, you will be navigating your way to Oksibil in west Papua. That's right, we're out of PNG for the highlands of Papua, Indonesia. Oksibil is the administrative centre of the area, however still has a small population of about 4,600 people. Oksibil has a very wet Tropical rainforest climate so we can expect some weather in the area.

185.Mula (WAVA)

Nestled in the mountains, Mulia offers a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. The region is known for its diverse indigenous cultures, with opportunities to experience traditional ceremonies and crafts. The surrounding landscape is characterized by lush rainforests, highland valleys, and challenging mountain terrain.

186.Bomomani (WACV)

Mountain ranges in these parts are high. We're going to cruise up above 10,000ft on several legs. Followed by treacherous descents into mountain side airstrips. It will be a more slowly paced flight today, but will come with it's own challenges. This may be one of the most scenic and rugged flights we've done here in West Papua. We're ending the flight at a small mountain aistrip only labeled as Bomomani. Assuming that this name is related to the region we don't really have much information specifically about this community.

187.Rendani (WAUU)

Time to jump back into the bush planes. We're out of the highest aeras and headed northwest to Rendani Airport. Located in Manokwari, West Papua, Indonesia. We'll have lots of time to cruise today, and explore some off airport landings. Once we get to Manokwari we can get some much needed supplies before our hop out of Papua. Manokwari is the capital city of West Papua Province, Indonesia, situated on the Bird's Head Peninsula. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests, coral reefs, and picturesque beaches. The region is also significant for its historical role in World War II, with remnants of war sites and memorials scattered throughout.

188.Marinda (WASN)

Mountain ranges in these parts are high. We're going to cruise up above 10,000ft on several legs. Followed by treacherous descents into mountain side airstrips. It will be a more slowly paced flight today, but will come with it's own challenges. This may be one of the most scenic and rugged flights we've done here in West Papua. We're ending the flight at a small mountain aistrip only labeled as Bomomani. Assuming that this name is related to the region we don't really have much information specifically about this community.

189.Ternate (WAEE)

We're back into some pretty substantial water crossings for the next while. On todays flight we will head to Ternate in the Maluku Islands, Indonesia. Ternate is famous for its twin volcanoes, Mount Gamalama and Mount Dukono. You can hike to the summit of Mount Gamalama to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. Ternate has several well-preserved forts that date back to the era of the spice trade.

Where ARE WE next?