Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the successful Restoration of Air Niugini’s direct flights between Port Moresby and Narita International Airport in Japan, describing it as a major milestone in Papua New Guinea’s Aviation Sector and a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s economic, tourism, investment and people-to-people ties with one of its closest and longest-standing Development Partners.
The inaugural restored service departed Jacksons International Airport last week as Flight PX54 and landed safely at Narita International Airport after approximately six hours, marking the return of direct air connectivity between Papua New Guinea and Japan after several years. Prime Minister Marape congratulated Air Niugini, its Board, Management, Flight Crew, Employees and all stakeholders whose commitment made the restoration of the important international route possible. “The restoration of Direct Flights between Papua New Guinea and Japan is far more than simply reopening an air route. It is a strategic investment in our nation’s future, connecting Papua New Guinea more closely with one of the world’s largest economies while opening new opportunities for tourism, trade, investment, education and cultural exchange,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister noted that Japan has remained one of Papua New Guinea’s most trusted development and economic partners for decades, contributing significantly to infrastructure development, fisheries, energy, agriculture, health, education and human resource development.
He said restoring Direct Flights reflects the growing confidence in Papua New Guinea’s economy and complements the Government’s broader agenda of positioning the country as a leading gateway into the Pacific region. “Japan has stood beside Papua New Guinea throughout our development journey. Today we are taking another important step in strengthening that relationship by making travel between our two countries easier, faster and more convenient for business travellers, tourists, investors and our respective citizens.” Prime Minister Marape said the renewed connection is expected to provide a significant boost to Papua New Guinea’s Tourism industry, allowing greater numbers of Japanese visitors to experience the country’s unique biodiversity, diverse cultures, pristine marine environments, adventure tourism and historical sites associated with World War II. He said improved accessibility would also benefit Papua New Guineans travelling to Japan for business, education, medical services, sporting exchanges and family visits. The Prime Minister further highlighted the importance of Aviation in driving National Economic Development. “Modern aviation is one of the engines of economic growth. Every new international route creates opportunities for investment, employment, exports, tourism and commerce. Improved air connectivity reduces barriers to business and positions Papua New Guinea more competitively within the Asia-Pacific region.” Prime Minister Marape said the restoration of the Narita service aligns with the Government’s long-term vision of expanding Papua New Guinea’s international aviation network. He noted that Air Niugini has already strengthened connectivity across the Region through its international services to destinations including Singapore, Hong Kong, Philippines and Australia, while the Government continues pursuing stronger aviation partnerships with key Regional economies. “Our vision extends beyond Japan. We are actively pursuing stronger aviation links across the Asia-Pacific region, including China, South Korea, Indonesia and other major Economic Partners. We are also exploring new opportunities with nations such as the United Arab Emirates and elsewhere to establish additional direct international connections that will strengthen Papua New Guinea’s place in the global economy.”
The Prime Minister said improved aviation links will complement the Government’s broader Investment Strategy aimed at attracting greater Foreign Direct Investment into Sectors such as mining, petroleum, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, manufacturing, digital technology and tourism. He also pointed to the ongoing redevelopment and expansion of Jacksons International Airport as another critical component of Papua New Guinea’s Aviation transformation. The extensive upgrades, particularly to the International Terminal and supporting Airport infrastructure, will significantly improve passenger experience, operational efficiency, safety standards and the country’s capacity to accommodate growing international traffic over the coming decades. “As we restore international routes, we are also investing in world-class airport infrastructure. The expansion of Jacksons International Airport demonstrates our confidence that Papua New Guinea will become an increasingly important Aviation Hub for the Pacific Region.”
Prime Minister Marape also commended Air Niugini for commemorating the inaugural restored service with special onboard celebrations and gifts presented to passengers, saying the initiative reflected Papua New Guinea’s renowned hospitality and warm national spirit. He encouraged Papua New Guineans to take advantage of the renewed service to strengthen business relationships, educational opportunities and tourism exchanges with Japan while inviting more Japanese travellers to discover Papua New Guinea. “This is only the beginning. As Papua New Guinea approaches our nation’s 51st Independence Anniversary and beyond, we are building stronger international partnerships, improving connectivity and creating the foundations for sustained economic growth. Every new air connection brings our nation closer to the world and the world closer to Papua New Guinea.” Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working closely with Air Niugini, the National Airports Corporation, Aviation Authorities and International Partners to continue expanding Papua New Guinea’s international aviation footprint as part of the Government’s broader Economic Transformation Agenda.