Papua New Guinea’s government has disclosed that it is investing K3 billion ($714 million) in the fleet modernisation of local carrier Air Niugini.
The country’s minister for state-owned enterprises, William Duma, referred to the figure as the airline conducted the first commercial flight with its Airbus A220-300.
Duma says the investment in the fleet-renewal programme “underscores our commitment to modernising national infrastructure”, adding that the twinjet is a “symbol of progress and pride”.
The aircraft carried out the initial service from Port Moresby to Lae on 4 October. Deputy prime minister John Rosso remarked that the route was appropriate, because it is one of the airline’s busiest and most profitable domestic links.
Air Niugini adds that the flight of the aircraft (P2-PGA) reflected that of the carrier’s first ever service, using a Douglas DC-3, in November 1973.
It says the A220 – one of 11 to be delivered – will be a “game-changer” for its domestic and regional operations, given its fuel efficiency and ability to operate on short runways.
The airline is replacing older Fokker 70s and 100s.
Air Niugini expects two more A220s to arrive before the end of this year. The carrier is taking the -100 variant as well as the -300. It has direct orders with Airbus for eight -100s.
“Our people deserve reliable, timely, and safe air travel,” adds Rosso. “Introduction of this world-class aircraft is a step in the right direction.”
