Joseph Tua thought it would be impossible to become an MAF pilot, but God had other plans for his life.
Story by Tajs Jespersen
“Joining MAF was my greatest leap of faith, requiring fundraising, Bible college, and intense training,” said Joseph Tua, an MAF pilot originating from Pangia in the Southern Highlands Province.
For six years, he has navigated turbulent skies to serve isolated communities, driven by a calling rooted in childhood dreams. Growing up, Joseph watched his pilot father command aircraft, defying gravity. Joseph’s frequent visits to the cockpit sparked a passion to fly.
Since joining MAF, I’ve found my purpose and fulfilment in flying, serving people.
But he never thought MAF was the way to fulfil that passion.
“My mother believes in giving back the first harvest to the Lord, so she asked me to apply. Knowing MAF in PNG - these people are legendary - I didn’t think it would be possible,” said Joseph.
“I gave it a go and the doors just kept opening and the Lord just kept providing.”
After Joseph joined MAF, his passion was transformed into purpose.
“Since joining MAF, I’ve found my purpose and fulfilment in flying, serving people, and using the skills the Lord has blessed me with,” he said.
Joseph’s flights deliver passengers and cargo to remote villages, bypassing days of treacherous walks through PNG’s often roadless terrain.
I deeply love and believe in MAF’s work... not just attending church, but serving others.
The challenges are relentless. Recently, Joseph landed at an airstrip and as he taxied the plane into the parking bay it sank into the mud.
“I spent 1 hour and 21 minutes pulling my plane from the mud, covered in it. I’m still wearing yesterday’s muddy shoes – I felt utterly spent,” he said.
Yet, Joseph presses on, fuelled by his faith and MAF’s mission.
“I deeply love and believe in MAF’s work, which takes a holistic approach to the gospel—not just attending church, but serving others,” said Joseph.
Throughout Joseph’s time in MAF, many people have had a profound impact on his life.
“I could go on naming all the pilots. I’ve learned a lot from them, they’ve helped shape my character to what it is today,” he said.
Joining MAF meant trusting God’s plan. That trust has led Joseph on an unexpected path he never thought possible, enabling him to share the light of Christ to isolated places.