As public outcry continues over flight cancellations during this peak period, Air Niugini is upbeat about its renewed hope, greater reliability and a new chapter.
The airliner proudly welcomed its second brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft to Port Moresby last Friday.
It marked another major milestone in the airline’s historic fleet modernization program.
The aircraft, registered P2-PGB, touched down at Jacksons International Airport at 2:00pm then after departing Montreal, Canada, and transiting through Vancouver, Honolulu and Fiji.
The aircraft was flown into Jacksons by seasoned aviator and Air Niugini’s Captain Timothy Narara and Airbus Captain Christian Pachlakto.
It arrived at a traditional water-salute welcome at the APEC Terminal, witnessed by the Minister for State-Owned Enterprises, Honorable William Duma, senior government officials, foreign dignitaries, members of the Air Niugini Board, and the airline’s management and staff.
In a media statement issued by the Airliner’s Corporate Communications team, Minister Duma said the arrival of the second A220 represents a significant step forward for PNG’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 modernize and strengthen our national airline. Air Niugini has been the pride of PNG since its first flight on 1st November 1973, and this new A220 helps reshape the future of aviation in our country.”
“The first A220, that 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 departures and arrivals departures are improving with this 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.”
Air 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 departures and arrivals 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 PNG’s complex terrain, while its lower fuel burn and emissions support a more sustainable national airline.
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 the country’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.