About Us – Journey, Inspiration & Growth
Mr. Robert Agarobe ( Founder)
The Rise of Robert Agarobe – From Toolbox to Aviation Pioneer
Robert Agarobe’s journey is one of vision, grit, and nation-building. Starting in the 1998 with nothing more than a toolbox and PGK400.00, he laid the foundation for what would become one of Papua New Guinea’s premier aviation companies — Helifix Operations Limited.
Trained as PNG’s first licensed helicopter engineer, Agarobe worked his way up from the hangar floor, building credibility in a sector dominated by foreign firms. With unwavering determination, he began maintaining helicopters independently, offering reliable services to small operators and later expanding to major clients in mining, oil, and emergency response.
In 1997, he formally launched Helifix, transforming his modest operation into a full-fledged air charter and maintenance company. Under his leadership, Helifix grew a fleet of Bell helicopters, AW139s, and fixed-wing aircraft, and became known for its engineering excellence, safety standards, and commitment to local capacity building.
Agarobe didn’t stop at aviation — he entered public service and later became Governor of Central Province, but his entrepreneurial roots remain an inspiration. His story proves that with vision, skill, and national pride, a single man with a toolbox can lift a country’s capabilities into the skies.
Our Journey
Helifix Operations Limited is a 100% Papua New Guinean-owned aviation company headquartered at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby (est. 1997–98). Founded by pioneering helicopter engineer Robert Agarobe—PNG’s first licensed and qualified helicopter engineer—the firm initially provided maintenance and consulting services before expanding into charter operations the same year.
Today, Helifix is a major aviation operator in PNG, employing over 60–70 staff across national and expatriate roles including pilots, engineers, technical, and management teams . Their motto—“doing our bit in nation building”—reflects a focus on supporting PNG’s infrastructure, resource, and telecommunications sectors through reliable air support .
Fleet & Services
Rotary-wing aircraft: An expanding fleet of Bell-series helicopters—212, 206, 407 models—at one point exceeding a dozen.
Fixed-wing aircraft: Since 2012, operates Cessna Grand Caravan (C208B) turboprops and a DHC-6 Twin Otter for longer-range missions.
Services include chartered passenger and cargo flights, logistics for telecom and construction projects (notably Digicel tower installations), offshore support, emergency medevac, disaster relief, and training .
Growth & Achievements
Began with leased aircraft from UAE in early 2000s, bought its own Bell 212s by 2003, and introduced Bell 407s in 2011.
Introduced AgustaWestland AW139 in 2016 as PNG’s first intermediate twin-engine helicopter operated by a national firm .
Maintains strict safety and quality—audited by major resource-sector firms (Oil Search, Barrick, BHP).
Helifix has evolved from a solo-engineer startup into a leading aviation provider with a diverse fleet and robust service portfolio. Its strong local leadership and strategic fleet expansion position it as a national hero in PNG’s infrastructure development and aviation industry.
Our Vision
To connect Papua New Guinea by air — safely, reliably, and with purpose — unlocking access, opportunity, and progress for every community we serve.
Our Mission
Helifix Operations Ltd exists to deliver trusted aviation solutions through charter services, aircraft maintenance, and aerial logistics. We are committed to:
Building strong partnerships grounded in integrity and trust.
Operating with discipline, safety, and professionalism;
Empowering local and international aviation talent;
Providing access to remote areas for health, government, resource, and community needs;
Continuously reinvesting in fleet renewal and operational excellence;
