10 years ago, 2 very dear MAF bush pilots, Chris Hansen and Richard West lost their lives in Papua New Guinea. We’ve dedicated this post to them. The following words are from MAF Chief Exec, Chris Lukkien.
“22 February 2015 marks the ten year anniversary of the circuit area accident of MFQ, a 300 series DHC6, at Wobagen in the highlands of western Papua New Guinea.
It was the sixth flight leg of what appeared to be a normal day for New Zealand pilots Chris Hansen and Richard West, as they flew a load of freight and passengers from Tabubil towards Wobagen in the Bimin valley. After arriving in the circuit area, due to ground fog the crew made several unsuccessful attempts to land at Wogaben before the aircraft impacted trees to the south of the airstrip. Both pilots were killed and the aircraft was destroyed. Cabin Attendant Stanley Torea and some of the ten passengers on board received light injuries.
On that day, the lives of Janice (wife of Chris) and their children Rochelle, Jessica and Simeon, and Cherie (wife of Richard) and children Larissa and Marcus were irrevocably changed, and no doubt ten years down the track, the memories of the pain and devastation felt are still very tangible.
On that day we had inevitable doubts and fears asking such questions as – ‘Why us? How could God allow this to happen? Where have we gone wrong? and Where to from here?’ It was a time for grieving and also a time when we were forced to depend on the sustaining love and faithfulness of our sovereign God in order to move forward.
Ten years on, let’s remember and celebrate the lives of Chris and Richard and give thanks for their service to MAF even unto death. Please pray for Chris and Richard’s families, asking God to continue to uphold and sustain them.
Let us also give thanks to the Lord for recent flying safety and continue to pray for safety for our organisation. Above all let’s recommit ourselves into the hands of God, praying for His will to be done in our lives and through our service with MAF.”
mafyouth 
Thankyou for this, was lovely to read. Have not seen that photo of dad before, are you able to email me a copy? Thank you
– Rochelle Hansen
Hi Rochelle. We’re glad and very humbled that you’ve not only responded but enjoyed what you’ve read. Of course, your photo is on its way! – MAF Youth