Solomon Islands National Carrier, Solomon Airlines, will on next week mark its 50th anniversary with the arrival of its new dash eight aircraft.
Dubbed the "Megapode" to commemorate Megapode Airways, who is the precursor to Solomon Airlines, set up in 1962 by Australian Aviator Laurie Crowley.The new aircraft leaves Cyprus this week for its five day travel to Honiara. The new arrival of Solomon Airlines new aircraft now ends the Dash 8 lease between Solomon Airlines and PNG Airlines.
General Manager Operations and Commercial Gus Kraus says the Dash 8 is the biggest investment made by the airline and the Solomon Islands aviation industry.
Also on Monday the airline will open its new head office near its Cargo Terminal at Honiara International Airport.
Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo is expected to open the office complex and to welcome the new dash eight.
The 36 seater dash eight will begin servicing the airlines routes by the end of next week.