Captain Flak,
I went to PNG in 2000 and spent 2 interesting years there flying for an operator based in POM. In terms of getting work, the opportunities there are diminishing somewhat as the countrys ecomomy continues its downward spiral.I would strongly recommend you call as many operators as possible before purchasing an airticket north. There are few operators left that will employ "low-timers" (<1000hrsTT) and even fewer still that operate light piston twins. Most operators using Twotters/Bandits/Kingairs/Dash 8's & the like (with national F/O's).
One of the biggest hurdles that you face is to obtain the somewhat ellusive work-permit. The PNG Govn't trys where posssible to employ national's, keeping the number of w-permits issued to expats to a minimum.
I didn't have a problem with safety despite POM'S bad reputation for rascalism.The social life was pretty good too!!
The flying itself is great, with terrific scenery some interesting wx and challenging strips.
Good luck!!
