Congratulations to Pilot Martin Orisi on obtaining Captain in Command

Solomon Airlines has congratulated Captain Martin Orisi on his career achievement of obtaining the position of ‘Captain in Command’ on the national carrier’s Twin Otter aircraft type.

Captain Orisi who hails originally from East Kwaio in Malaita Province achieved his Captain in Command position on 5th October 2023. He made his first flight that day in command of a Twin Otter flying on the Arona to Kirakira route.

Solomon Airlines Acting CEO Napoleon Padabela said Captain Orisi’s career achievement was a great example to young people throughout Solomon Islands.

“We are proud of Captain Orisi’s achievement and also because he has shown, as have many of our local pilots, that it is very possible through education, self discipline and hard work to become an airline pilot and fly for our national carrier,” he said.

Captain Orisi agreed: "I would like to think that more children and young people in Solomon Islands will also one day work for our airline, and I like to sincerely thank everyone who has been part of my journey and supported me to achieve this position,” he said. 

Captain Orisi’s decision to train as a pilot followed completion of his primary school years at Launana and Guwadingale Primary Schools and secondary education at Aligegeo High school and Su'u national secondary school (Form 4- form 7).

He undertook training at the Pacific Flying School in Namaka Fiji before commencing his employment as a Training Pilot with Solomon Airlines in September 2016. 

He later qualified to be a First Officer and became a Pilot in Command on the Twin Otter aircraft in January this year.

Today Solomon Airlines employs 25 domestic pilots including 11 x Captains in Command,10 x First Officers and 4 x Trainee Pilots.

Established in 1986, the PFS has graduated more than 200 Commercial Pilots who now occupy positions with regional and international airlines including Solomon Airlines.