King Charles marked the 80th anniversary of Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) at RAF Northolt on Thursday, unveiling a new aircraft that will deliver aid to remote regions in Papua New Guinea.
The King, 76, also celebrated Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary of independence during the visit.
The humanitarian air operator flies to 14,000 remote destinations offering support to isolated communities worldwide.
Group Captain Jonathan Hough, Station Commander of RAF Northolt, greeted Charles upon arrival before presenting him to MAF CEO Donovan Palmer.
King Charles marked the 80th anniversary of Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) at RAF Northolt on Thursday, unveiling a new aircraft that will deliver aid to remote regions in Papua New Guinea
PA
MAF was founded at the end of the Second World War by RAF officers who wanted to use their flight skills to build peace.
Today, the organisation delivers vital support including access to medicine, technology and education to remote communities.
It operates a fleet of 117 light aircraft in more than 25 low-income countries, including Commonwealth nations such as Papua New Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, and Arnhem Land in Australia.
MAF flights transport food to market, deliver building equipment, carry teachers and conduct medical evacuations.
King Charles celebrated Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary of independence during the visit
PA
During the visit, the King met with members of the UK's Papua New Guinean community, including Rugby League players Judah Rimbu, Liam Horne, Sylvester Namo and Jeremiah Simbiken who represent Castleford Tigers in the Super League.
Her Excellency Betty Palaso, High Commissioner of Papua New Guinea, presented these community members to His Majesty.
Following an address by MAF CEO Donovan Palmer, King Chalres unveiled the new Cessna 208 Grand Caravan aircraft by opening the hangar door.
His Majesty viewed the new plane alongside a 1930s de Havilland Dragon Rapide bi-plane, similar to those used in MAF's early operations.
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King Charles met with members of the UK's Papua New Guinean community, including Rugby League players Judah Rimbu, Liam Horne, Sylvester Namo and Jeremiah Simbiken who represent Castleford Tigers in the Super League
PA
MAF began operating in Papua New Guinea in 1951, with the organisation committing to the country's long-term development by employing and training approximately 100 local staff.
It has become MAF's busiest programme, recognised by the government, international aid agencies and local communities as a vital and reliable service.
The new Cessna has been specially modified to withstand challenging flying conditions on uneven, rustic terrain.#
The visit comes just days after the King returned to public duties, recognise leading figures including his friend Alan Titchmarsh, who will receive a CBE for services to horticulture and charity.
The Tuesday ceremony marked his first public engagement since experiencing what royal sources described as a "minor bump" in his cancer journey.
