Air Niugini’s new Airbus A220-300 aircraft are reshaping domestic air travel across Papua New Guinea, delivering improved reliability, comfort and capacity since entering service late last year.
The national carrier introduced its first A220-300 in September, followed by two additional aircraft in December. The three next-generation jets have quickly become popular with passengers and are playing a key role in strengthening connectivity across the country.
As holidaymakers, workers and students return to their homes and places of work and study at the start of the year, the A220 fleet has helped reunite families and communities, transporting passengers safely and comfortably across the domestic network. Air Niugini has branded the aircraft The People’s Balus, reflecting its role in linking communities nationwide.
Configured with 138 seats, the A220-300 provides increased capacity compared with the Fokker aircraft it complements and is progressively replacing. Passengers benefit from a wider cabin, larger windows, increased overhead luggage space and more comfortable seating, including Business Class, delivering a noticeably enhanced travel experience.
The A220s are currently operating on key domestic routes serving Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Kavieng, Manus Island and Alotau. These services connect major population centres and regional hubs, supporting economic activity, access to education and health services, and vital social ties.
In addition to passenger comfort, the aircraft offers significant operational advantages. Its advanced technology and fuel efficiency support improved schedule reliability and performance, particularly on longer domestic sectors. The aircraft’s quieter operation and modern systems also align with Air Niugini’s investment in a safer, greener and more sustainable fleet.
As runway upgrade works progress at airports around the country, Air Niugini plans to deploy the A220 on additional domestic routes, including Mount Hagen, Wewak and Kimbe, further expanding access and connectivity.
The A220-300 is also set to operate selected regional services, including routes to Australia, once regulatory requirements are completed. The aircraft will initially service Cairns before debuting on the Port Moresby–Sydney route on March 29.
Services to Sydney currently operate twice a week. With the introduction of the A220, frequencies will increase to three flights a week from March 29. Departures from Port Moresby will operate on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, with return services the following mornings on Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays.
The introduction of the A220 fleet marks a significant milestone for Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea, ushering in a new era of improved comfort, capacity and reliability for travellers both domestically and across the region.
