Three A220-300 aircraft are already operating, while eight A220-100 are expected to arrive by the end of 2027.
Photo: Air Niugini
Photo: Air Niugini
Air Niugini
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
AIR NIUGINI
Air Niugini, the national carrier of Papua New Guinea, has signed a firm order with Airbus for six latest generation single aisle A220-100s under its fleet modernisation programme. In addition, the carrier will acquire three A220-300s and another two A220-100s from third party lessors.
The order was announced at a special event in Port Moresby by Gary Seddon, Acting Chief Executive Officer Air Niugini and Anand Stanley, President Airbus Asia-Pacific, in the presence of the Hon. James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea and Hon. William Duma, Minister for State Enterprises.
Combining the longest range, lowest fuel consumption and widest cabin in the 100-150 seat category, the A220 will be operated by Air Niugini across its domestic and regional network. The new fleet will deliver more capacity and greater reliability across the domestic network and enable the carrier to fly from capital Port Moresby to new destinations across the Asia-Pacific region.
Gary Seddon, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini said: “This is a milestone in the history of our national airline that will support the growth of trade and tourism in Papua New Guinea. The new aircraft will offer the highest levels of comfort for our passengers, while also ensuring a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions when compared to the aircraft they will replace.”