Navigating Growth: PNG Ports Elevates Pilot Training for LNG Success

PNG Ports Corporation, the main port operator and leader in marine pilotage in Papua New Guinea, has improved the quality of pilotage services in the country following an LNG tanker training program conducted in Port Moresby and Brisbane. This initiative included theoretical, practical, and simulator training, enhancing the skills of six experienced pilots at PNG Ports. Two of these pilots are already certified to pilot LNG tankers, while the others are progressing towards achieving their certifications.

Since 2014, PNG Ports’ pilots have served the Caution Bay LNG terminal, which is operated by ExxonMobil PNG Limited and is vital for the country’s LNG exports, significantly contributing to PNG’s GDP. An MOU with ExxonMobil commits PNG Ports to train and certify pilots under the National Maritime Safety Authority, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The training has created a pool of skilled pilots, with the potential for more to be trained as the country’s LNG output is expected to increase, especially with upcoming projects like the Total-led Papua LNG development and ExxonMobil-led P’nyang LNG Project.

Chief Operating Officer Felix Bauri emphasized the critical role of simulator training, specifying its importance for preparing pilots for emergencies such as steering failures, tug errors, and adverse weather conditions. This rigorous training is designed not only for LNG tankers but also enhances the overall capabilities of pilots, benefiting all types of vessels serving PNG.

The commitment to pilot training is part of a broader strategy to improve port infrastructure, backed by a significant A$621.4 million investment from the PNG and Australian governments aimed at repairing and upgrading key ports. CEO Neil Papenfus underscored that enhancing pilot training standards is essential to safeguarding investments and preventing potential damage from shipping accidents—a proactive approach to boosting operational safety and compliance.

As Papua New Guinea’s economy develops further, stemming from these important LNG projects and infrastructure investments, the future of maritime operations appears promising. The ongoing commitment to improving pilot training and port capabilities reflects an optimistic outlook for both the maritime sector and the broader economy in the nation.