– Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has congratulated Air Niugini, its management, and the people of Morobe Province following the successful operation of the airline’s first Airbus A220-300 commercial flight to Nadzab yesterday, describing it as a major step forward in Papua New Guinea’s aviation and connectivity ambitions as the nation celebrates its 50th year of Independence.
Prime Minister Marape said the new A220 service, operated under the “People’s Balus” livery, signifies the dawn of a modern era in domestic air travel and stands as a symbol of national pride and progress.
“As the A220 landed in Nadzab, it was more than a new aircraft touching down — it was our nation taking flight into a modern future,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“This is a powerful statement that Papua New Guinea is investing in reliability, safety, and efficiency for our people. Our government is supporting Air Niugini’s fleet modernisation because air connectivity is the lifeblood of our economy and a unifying force across our diverse geography.”
A Milestone for PNG Aviation
The inaugural A220 flight, operated as PX100, departed Port Moresby on Saturday morning, 4 October 2025, and landed at Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport to a rousing welcome from government leaders, airline staff, and the people of Morobe. Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP Hon. John Rosso and State Enterprises Minister Hon. William Duma were among the first passengers on board.
Before takeoff, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at Jacksons Domestic Terminal to mark the beginning of commercial A220 operations. Passengers were treated to Air Niugini’s upgraded onboard catering, featuring locally inspired meals and improved inflight service.
Deputy Prime Minister Rosso praised Air Niugini’s management and staff for maintaining one of the region’s best safety records despite challenging operating conditions, and reaffirmed government support for the airline’s new fleet rollout.
A National Investment in the Future
Prime Minister Marape said the introduction of the A220 aircraft, part of a PGK 2.6 billion modernisation and re-fleet programme, is a significant government-backed investment through Kumul Consolidated Holdings to ensure Papua New Guinea’s national airline remains competitive, safe, and sustainable.
“Our government provided the pre-delivery payments and institutional support to make this fleet renewal possible. It is a direct investment in our people’s mobility, in our economy, and in our unity as one nation under God,” the Prime Minister said.
“Air Niugini is not just an airline — it is a national symbol. I commend the board, management, and all employees who have worked tirelessly to bring this modern jet to our skies.”
The A220-300 aircraft features improved fuel efficiency, quieter engines, and greater passenger comfort. Air Niugini plans to gradually deploy the aircraft on major domestic routes including Port Moresby to Lae, Kavieng, and Manus, before expanding to international destinations in 2026.
Building on Infrastructure Readiness
Prime Minister Marape also commended the National Airports Corporation (NAC) and Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA PNG) for their roles in upgrading infrastructure at Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport to accommodate the new generation of aircraft.
He said the arrival of the A220 coincides with the completion of key airport infrastructure projects under the Japan-funded Nadzab Airport Redevelopment Project, which positions Lae as a major domestic and international hub for the Momase Region.
“The partnership between NAC, CASA, Air Niugini, and international partners demonstrates that when we align our vision, Papua New Guinea can meet world-class standards,” the Prime Minister said.
“Lae will now connect more efficiently to Port Moresby and other centres, opening new opportunities for business, tourism, and education.”
Looking Ahead: PNG@50 and Beyond
Prime Minister Marape said the launch of A220 services is perfectly timed as the country celebrates PNG@50, representing a forward-looking message of renewal and confidence.
“As we celebrate 50 years of nationhood, the ‘People’s Balus’ represents the next chapter of Papua New Guinea’s story — one of innovation, unity, and shared growth.
“We are flying higher than ever before, and the horizon ahead is full of promise.”