Air Niugini has proudly welcomed its second brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft to Port Moresby, marking another major milestone in the airline’s historic fleet modernisation program.
The aircraft, registered P2-PGB, touched down at Jacksons International Airport at 2:00pm on Friday, 12 December 2025, after departing Montreal, Canada, and transiting through Vancouver, Honolulu, and Fiji.
The aircraft was flown into Jacksons by seasoned aviator and Air Niugini Captain Timothy Narara, alongside Airbus Captain Christian Pachlakto. It arrived to a traditional water-salute welcome at the APEC Terminal, witnessed by the Minister for State-Owned Enterprises, Honourable William Duma, senior government officials, foreign dignitaries, members of the Air Niugini Board, and the airline’s management and staff.
Minister Duma said the arrival of the second A220 represents a significant step forward for Papua New Guinea’s national carrier and reinforces the Government’s vision for a stronger, more modern aviation sector.
After decades of ‘just getting by,’ our National Flag Carrier is now in the position to keep moving in the right direction,” Minister Duma said.
“The arrival of this aircraft is a proud achievement for our nation and a clear sign of the Government’s unwavering commitment to modernise and strengthen our national airline. Air Niugini has been the pride of PNG since its first flight on 1 November 1973, and this new A220 helps reshape the future of aviation in our country.”
“The first A220, which arrived on the eve of Independence this year, is already taking pressure off the existing fleet. The second Airbus before us today, and the third coming soon, will further improve on-time departures and arrivals.”
“This is not a quick fix, as it is the busiest time of the year for air travel, but on-time performance is improving with the growing fleet.”
“On behalf of the Marape-Rosso Government, I proudly welcome this second Airbus A220 to Papua New Guinea. May it serve our people with pride, reliability, and safety for decades to come.”
ir Niugini Board Chairman Mr Karl Yalo highlighted the significance of the A220 for both the airline and its customers.
“This aircraft represents far more than a new machine—it represents renewed hope, greater reliability, and a new chapter for our national airline,” Mr Yalo said.
“The A220 offers wider seats, larger windows, quieter cabins, and world-class comfort—something never before experienced in domestic PNG aviation.”
Mr Yalo added that the new aircraft will gradually resolve recent reliability challenges.
“The interruptions we have seen were caused by aircraft that have served long beyond their intended life. The A220 marks the beginning of a permanent solution. With every new arrival, reliability and on-time performance will improve, and our customers will see the difference.”
The Airbus A220 is one of the most advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft in its class. Its superior performance makes it ideally suited to Papua New Guinea’s complex terrain, while its lower fuel burn and reduced emissions support a more sustainable national airline.
Aircraft P2-PGB is the second of 11 A220 aircraft on order. The third aircraft is scheduled to arrive before the end of the year, with additional deliveries continuing into 2026. The first A220 arrived in September this year, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
Air Niugini remains committed to delivering safe, reliable, and world-standard air services for the people of Papua New Guinea.
Air Niugini
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